Using Fresh Herbs in the Kitchen
Have fresh herbs growing in your garden or sitting on your kitchen counter? Don’t let them go to waste—learn how to make the most of their flavor and freshness with these practical tips for cooking with herbs.
🌿 Tips for Using Fresh Herbs in the Kitchen
Know When to Add Them
Delicate herbs (like basil, parsley, chives, cilantro, and dill) should be added at the end of cooking or used raw to preserve their flavor.
Hardier herbs (like rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage) can handle longer cooking times and are great early in the cooking process.
Wash and Dry Properly
Rinse herbs gently in cold water and pat dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner. Excess moisture can lead to soggy, spoiled herbs and dilute flavors in cooking.
Store Them Right
Soft herbs (parsley, cilantro, mint) do well in a jar of water in the fridge, loosely covered with a plastic bag.
Hard herbs (rosemary, thyme) can be wrapped in damp paper towels and stored in a sealed bag in the fridge.
Use the Stems Wisely
For herbs like parsley or cilantro, tender stems can be chopped and used just like the leaves.
Woody stems from rosemary or thyme can be used to infuse stocks or sauces, then removed before serving.
Chop Just Before Use
Herbs start to lose their flavor and aroma quickly after cutting. Chop them right before adding to your dish for maximum impact.
Don’t Overdo It
Fresh herbs are potent. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. It’s easier to add than to fix over-seasoning.
Make Compound Butters or Oils
Mix chopped herbs with softened butter or oil for an easy flavor booster for meats, veggies, or bread.
Dry or Freeze Extras
If you have leftover herbs, dry them by hanging in small bundles or freeze them in olive oil in ice cube trays for later use.
Match Herbs to Cuisine
Basil, oregano, and rosemary work well with Italian dishes.
Cilantro, mint, and lemongrass pair beautifully with Asian or Latin American flavors.
Dill and parsley shine in Eastern European or Mediterranean cuisine.
Experiment With Fresh Herb Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs can brighten up the look and taste of a dish—think parsley on soup or mint on fruit.
Fresh herbs are a simple way to bring life to your cooking—so don’t let them go to waste! With a little care and creativity, you can turn even everyday meals into something special. Looking to start growing your own herbs? Stop by Down to Earth to find our in-stock herbs!