Fresh Herbs: Easy to Grow, Easy to Use This Summer

By Luisa Szakacs, CNC – Marpé Nutrition

Summer is the perfect time to grow fresh herbs. Whether you have a large garden, a raised bed, or simply a few pots on your patio, herbs are one of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow.

Not only do herbs add wonderful flavor to meals, but many offer more than that. They are a simple way to add freshness and nutrition to everyday foods, with benefits ranging from antioxidants to digestive support.

Basil

Basil thrives in warm weather and sunny locations, making it a favorite addition to summer gardens. Be sure to pinch off any flowers that appear to encourage continued leaf growth.

One of the simplest ways to enjoy basil is in a fresh tomato basil salad.

Tomato Basil Salad

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Sea salt to taste
• Optional: balsamic vinegar

Directions

Combine all ingredients, toss gently, and serve. It is a fresh and flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish.

Dill

Dill is easy to grow from seed and brings a bright, fresh flavor to many dishes. It works especially well with fish, cucumbers, and yogurt-based recipes.

One of my favorite ways to use dill is in homemade tzatziki dip.

Dill Tzatziki Dip

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cucumber, grated and squeezed dry
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Sea salt to taste

Directions

Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy with fresh vegetables, grilled chicken, or fish.

Cilantro

Cilantro grows quickly and can be harvested often. Its fresh flavor makes it popular in salads, salsas, and seafood dishes. Note that cilantro prefers cooler conditions, so avoid placing it in a spot with intense afternoon heat.

Cilantro Lime Salmon

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Sea salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Mix cilantro, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spoon over salmon and bake at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes or until fish flakes easily.

Rosemary and Sage

Rosemary and sage are hardy herbs that can provide flavor throughout much of the growing season. Rosemary is known for its fragrant, pine-like aroma, while sage offers an earthy, savory flavor. Rosemary is also notably calming and versatile, wonderful in everything from sourdough bread to roasted meats.

One simple way to use both herbs together is in a homemade herb butter.

Rosemary & Sage Herb Butter

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
• Pinch of sea salt

Directions

Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate until ready to use. This herb butter is delicious on roasted vegetables, potatoes, fish, chicken, or sourdough bread.

Peppermint

Peppermint is one of the easiest herbs to grow, but it tends to spread aggressively, so it is best planted in a container of its own.

Fresh mint tea is refreshing, simple to prepare, and can be enjoyed either hot or iced.

Fresh Peppermint Tea

Ingredients

• 1 handful fresh peppermint leaves
• 2 cups hot water
• Monk fruit to taste

Directions

Pour hot water over the leaves and steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Sweeten with monk fruit if desired. Enjoy warm, or chill and serve over ice for a refreshing summer beverage.

Fresh herbs are one of the simplest ways to make healthy meals more enjoyable. A small harvest can transform everyday foods, adding fresh flavor to salads, fish, vegetables, dips, and even beverages.

This summer, try growing a few herbs of your own. They are easy to grow, versatile in the kitchen, and a simple way to add fresh flavor and nutrition to everyday meals.