It’s gardening season, mamas! There’s nothing more magical than this time of year, with new life sprouting up all around us. If you haven’t started planning your garden, now is the time. Don’t have space or time this year? Consider planting a small herb garden, instead.
Fresh herbs are relatively easy to grow. If you don’t have space for a garden bed, they can easily be grown in a planter, both outside or inside. They pack a powerful punch, adding all sorts of fresh flavor to any food.
If you’re unsure where to start, we’ve broken down some of our favorite herbs to grow and the best way to use and preserve them.
Basil
Buying basil at the store can be costly, though, especially when many recipes call for large amounts to be used. Planting it at home is much more cost-effective.
You are probably most familiar with standard Italian basil, the type you would generally find in pesto, or a Caprese salad. However, basil comes in a wide variety of delicious options. We’re big fans of Thai basil, which has a sweeter flavor profile.
Whatever your preferences are, basil is the perfect herb to add to your garden. While basil is typically considered a summer crop, you can grow basil inside, all year round. Just be sure to pinch off any buds or flowers that grow, in order to ensure vibrant leaves.
How To Use:
- Grind into a fresh pesto. This can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.
- Freeze dry and use as seasoning for pasta
- Combine with olive oil for a delicious flavored oil that will keep for up six months
Cilantro
Cilantro is a hugely versatile herb. It can be used in a wide range of cuisines. This makes it an ideal herb to have on hand at home.
Cilantro thrives in cool weather, which makes it ideal for growing in springtime. Planting it in early spring, in a space where it will receive full sun will make for the healthiest crop.
How To Use:
- Combine cilantro, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt in a blender to create a delicious, fresh-tasting dressing.
- Freeze zip-top bag for later use.
- Add some to your vegetable scraps to create a nutritious vegetable broth
Parsley
Parsley is every bit as versatile as cilantro but has fallen out of fashion over the past few years. However, take it from us! You won’t regret adding it to your vegetable garden.
For best results, parsley should be planted in the spring, although it can yield crops well into autumn. Parsley does best in either full sun or partial shade. If you are growing it indoors, place it near a sunny window.
How To Use:
- Use it as a salad green! Chop it up and add it to your favorite greens for a light, herby aftertaste to your pasta.
- Combine dried parsley, garlic powder, salt, and red chili flakes for a ready-to-go- garlic bread mixture. Just add butter!
- Add parsley, garlic cloves, salt, pepper, white wine vinegar, and olive oil to a food processor. Blend, and voila! You have a delicious chimichurri sauce, that will go well with meat and vegetables.
Rosemary
Rosemary is one of the most delicious, aromatic herbs that you can grow. It is also one of the easiest herbs to care for. They do best in sunny environments and grow exceptionally well indoors. Be sure not to overwater these plants, as they thrive when the soil is somewhat dry.
How To Use:
- Bake into breads like focaccia.
- Combine it with olive oil in ice cube trays, and freeze. These cubes can be used as a flavorful alternative to regular cooking oils.
- Mix together with dried oregano, parsley, salt, garlic powder, and chili flakes for a delicious Italian seasoning
Mint
Mint is one of our favorite herbs to use in spring cooking. If you are planting it in a garden bed, however, take care. Mint is super easy to grow, and easily takes over a garden. Make sure to give it plenty of room to spread, without getting in the way of other plants.
How To Use:
- Add into spring rolls for a refreshing flavor.
- Add into lemon water for a great, sugar-free summer beverage.
- Make a berry compote with mint, fresh berries, and a little sugar heated on the stove. Spoon over ice cream, or spread on toast.
- Make CMC founder Lizzy Mathis’ Watermelon and Feta Salad!
Dill
Dill is one of our favorite herbs, at the moment! Its bright, distinctive flavor can help any dish come alive. It grows quickly from seed in warm weather. Plant in a place with lots of sun, and enjoy your harvest!
How To Use:
- Make a lemon and dill cream sauce to serve with fish or chicken.
- Make your own dill pickles
- Add to sour cream to make a delicious dip to serve with potato chips.