Herbs have an abundance of health benefits. Here are some of the most notable ones from our favorite herbs, plus ways to incorporate more herbs into your meals!
Basil – helps the body adapt to stress; has cancer preventive properties
- on pizza
- in pasta
- in Thai food
- add to a salad with greens, berries, and cucumber
- basil dressing (pictured in the photo, subscribe for recipe)
- caprese salad
- pesto
Cilantro – can lower blood sugar levels; helps rid the body of heavy metals
- On tacos
- n slaw or on salads
- in marinades
- in guacamole
Oregano – has antiviral and antibacterial properties
- add to a chicken marinade
- chop up and put in a salad dressing
- on pizza
- mix into homemade pizza dough or focaccia
- sprinkle on sliced tomato and cucumber
- add to meatballs
Parsley – a source of vitamins A, C, K, and folate; improves digestion and reduces bloating
- add to homemade ranch dressing (subscribe for recipe)
- make a chimichurri or pesto
- add to a salad
- make tabbouleh
- top boiled eggs or egg salad with it
- add it to pasta
- top salmon or shrimp
- add to a baked potato
- season oven fries with parsley and seasoning salt
- add to a quinoa or bean salad
Dill – possible natural remedy for depression; lowers cholesterol
- in a pasta salad
- in tzatziki sauce
- make homemade pickles
- in hummus
- with smoked salmon and lemon
- in homemade ranch dressing (subscribe for recipe)
Thyme – helps prevent and treat respiratory illness and can ease sore throats
- cook with white beans
- in a roasted chicken (subscribe for recipe)
- in chicken soup
- to marinate a steak
- in braised or slow-cooked beef preparations
Sage – can reduce hot flashes; can improve insulin sensitivity
- on roasted winter squashes (butternut, delicata, acorn)
- with roasted whole turkey/turkey breast
- in a brown butter pasta
- on scallops
- add to a creamy sauce for pasta
Rosemary – scent can improve mood and alertness; can help relieve indigestion
- for fragrance: in a pot or slow cooker add water, a few sprigs of rosemary, whole
- cranberries, slices of orange, and a cinnamon stick; let the water simmer and the scent is perfect for Fall
- on roasted sweet potatoes
- on pork tenderloin
Download Ways To Incorporate Herbs Into Meals Here
Bon Appetite,
Ana-Maria Temple, MD