The ability to pluck fresh herbs when cooking not only adds incredible flavor but saves you time and money. I have narrowed my choices this year to the five healthiest herbs to plant in my garden.
The only thing better than using fresh herbs when preparing a meal is the ability to pick them fresh from your garden. Most herbs are relatively easy to grow and do not require a ton of space. I have had an AeroGarden a window ledge garden, and a small herb garden in the yard. This year, I am focusing on planting the five healthiest herbs in my garden and keeping things fairly simple.
I love using fresh herbs when I prepare a meal. They add color, incredible flavor, and even a dreamy aroma. Even though my yard is a decent size, the actual space reserved for gardening is rather small. In planning my garden, I strategize my efforts and concentrate on the herbs that I will use the most and add the most nutritional value.
Fresh herbs are a great way to add extraordinary flavor without having to add extra calories or fat.
Herbs add incredible flavor to our food and can be loaded with vitamins and minerals. Here are my favorite herbs to grow that I love and use all the time.
- Basil: You probably guessed that! Basil is fabulous in cooking, salads, and even smoothies. There are several varieties of basil and they are all fabulous, however, I usually stick to Sweet Basil or Italian Basil(Genovese Basil) Both are very similar and often interchangeable. Fresh basil helps fight depression, inflammation, and oxidative stress. It has anti-bacterial properties and antioxidants. It also helps with digestion.
- Rosemary: Rosemary is high in Manganese, an essential nutrient for metabolic health. It is also great for your immune system, helps improve memory and concentration, and is a natural stress reliever. It is often paired with poultry but is an excellent addition to soups, stews, and salads.
- Parsley: Parsley is not only easy to grow and adds great color and flavor to your dishes, but it is also loaded with vitamin K which is essential for healthy bones. Parsley also is a natural diuretic, and a nice breath freshener, rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial properties.
- Sage: Sage has a strong aroma and flavor and even though it is usually used in small amounts, it is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K. Sage may help to lower cholesterol, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote good oral health. Sage has also been known to help ease the symptoms of menopause. I love to dry fresh sage and make my own smudge sticks. To repel mosquitos, you can also throw fresh sage and rosemary in your firepit this summer.
- Mint: Mint is a lovely garnish, that helps with an upset tummy, aids in digestion, and calms inflammation. Mint leaves are rich in phosphorus, calcium, and vitamins C, D, E, and A. It is the perfect addition to any garden as it is easy to grow and attracts beneficial insects such as butterflies and bees and since it is rich in pollen, it helps to pollinate other plants. I would suggest planting mint in pots otherwise it will take over your garden. Try adding fresh mint to your salad or your water.
With the spring weather being so unpredictable, I like to start my herb garden inside. I have found a great starter set that works well and is a fun project. If you have kids or grandkids they make great helpers! There is something miraculous about planting a seed in soil and watching it come to life.
Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Fresh Herbs
This is one of my favorite summer salads that makes a delightful afternoon lunch or a side dish. Just think how fun it will be to go to your garden and pluck the herbs of your choice to go on top.
Here is the recipe for the Strawberry Cucumber Salad with Fresh Herbs from my blog: https://www.lisacaretti.com/strawberry-cucumber-salad-with-feta-and-fresh-herbs/
Enjoy!
