Easy Ways to Add Flavor To Your Meals

Herbs aren’t just pretty decorations on your plate. They’re packed with flavor and can even be good for you! Adding herbs to your daily meals is a simple way to make your food taste amazing. And it’s super easy! First, let’s see the contrast between fresh and dried herbs.

Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: What’s the Deal?
Fresh herbs have a brighter, stronger flavor than dried herbs. Think of it like the difference between a fresh apple and dried apple chips – both are good, but one is more intense. If you’re using dried herbs, you need less because they’re more concentrated. A good rule is: use about one-third the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh herbs.

Easy Herbs to Start With:
Some herbs are great for almost any dish. Here are a few good ones to begin with:

Basil: This sweet, fragrant herb is a must-have in Italian food. It’s perfect with tomatoes, pasta, and salads.
Parsley: A mild, fresh herb that adds a pop of green to almost anything. Sprinkle it on soups, stews, roasted vegetables, or grilled meat.
Mint: Cool and refreshing, mint is delicious in teas, salads, and desserts. It’s also great in Middle Eastern and Indian food.
Rosemary: This strong, piney herb is great with roasted meats, potatoes, and bread.
Thyme: Another versatile herb, thyme goes well with chicken, fish, and vegetables. It adds a subtle earthy flavor.

Simple Ways to Use Herbs:

• Sprinkle them on top: The easiest way to add flavor and make your food look nicer. Chop fresh herbs and sprinkle them on salads, soups, pasta, or even eggs.
• Add them while cooking: Stronger herbs like rosemary and thyme can be added early so their flavor infuses into the dish. Delicate herbs like basil and parsley are best added at the end.
• Make flavored oils or vinegars: Put herbs in a bottle of oil or vinegar and let them sit for a few weeks. Then you’ll have flavorful oils and vinegars for dressings and marinades.
• Make herb butter: Mix softened butter with chopped herbs. Use it on grilled meats, vegetables, or bread.
• Use them in marinades: Herbs add lots of flavor to marinades for meat, chicken, or fish.

The best way to have fresh herbs is to grow them yourself! You don’t need a big garden. Many herbs grow well in pots on a windowsill or balcony.

Don’t be afraid to try different herbs and combinations. Start with a few favorites and then try new ones. There are so many possibilities! Using herbs is a delicious and simple way to make your cooking even better.