Fresh Herbs can take meals to the next level, adding more flavor, vitamins, antioxidants and color than their dried counterparts. They’re also easy to grow. Herbs can thrive in indoor containers under a grow light, then be transplanted outside in the spring. We offer three easy recipes for cooking with fresh herbs. If you don’t have a green thumb, they’re also available in the produce section of grocery stores.
Garlic Herb Butter
This butter is incredibly versatile. Use on top of bread, popcorn, veggies, steaks, as a sandwich spread and more.
Ingredients:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
4 tablespoons fresh parsley leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh herb of choice (we suggest dill, basil or oregano)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
Cracked pepper to taste
Directions:
Add all ingredients in a food processor (or mix by hand in a bowl). Transfer butter mixture to parchment paper or plastic wrap. Cover butter tightly and roll into a log. Refrigerate until firm.
Herb Salt
Herb salts are becoming a popular way to add flavor to a variety of dishes. There are endless flavor combinations, and these salts are so handy to have as a staple in the kitchen. Plus, they make great gifts for family and friends. All you need is a blender or food processor and minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
1 cup salt (we prefer Himalayan pink salt or Kosher salt, but any salt will work)
½ cup fresh parsley leaves (¼ cup if using dried)
¼ cup fresh basil (2 Tablespoons if using dried)
1 tablespoon oregano
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 garlic clove, minced
Optional: Any additional herbs you prefer
Directions:
Add fresh parsley, garlic, lemon zest and a little bit of salt to the blender or food processor. Mix for 10 seconds. Add additional ingredients and blend again. Line the baking sheet with parchment paper and pour salt mixture on sheet and spread evenly. Set in a cool oven overnight to dry. Pour salt into a container of choice and enjoy!
Herbed Popcorn
Add a little kick to your traditional popcorn with this buttery and savory combination of ingredients.
Ingredients:
3 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil
¾ cup popcorn kernels
5 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons garlic salt
2 teaspoons parsley (dried)
1 teaspoon thyme
Directions:
Add oil to a pot and melt over medium heat. Add popcorn kernels, cover pot with lid and cook over medium heat until kernels are popped, shaking pan occasionally. Melt butter in a separate dish and add seasonings. Pour on popcorn and enjoy!