Each fall, Arizonans start planning herb gardens, fire up the grills for patio dining and enjoy getting outdoors. Turning the outdoor space into a home garden is a great way to embrace Arizona winters. Growing fresh herbs is simple, even in the smallest spaces.
Sweet Italian or purple Thai basil has a floral sweetness with a hint of pepper. Cilantro (or coriander leaf) is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of spice, great for chimichurri sauce. Rosemary is ideal for adding flavor to meats and potatoes. Thyme is a French staple. Its tiny aromatic leaves add a beautiful floral note to dishes. Dill is tangy, ideal with salmon, yogurt and lemon. Oregano, used in most Italian dishes, offers a peppery, earthy flavor.
If you prefer to purchase herbs, buy them close to the time you plan to use them. Wash them, wrap in a damp paper towel and place in a ziplock bag. Store on your refrigerator door or top shelf.
City Lifestyle editor Angela Broockerd shares a few recipes using fresh herbs.
GARLIC HERB BUTTER
This is a versatile butter and goes with just about anything. Use this on top of bread, popcorn, veggies, as a sandwich spread and more.
INGREDIENTS
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½ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
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4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon herb of your choice (dill, basil or oregano are my go-to herbs)
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1 clove garlic, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
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½ teaspoon salt
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Cracked pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS
Add all ingredients to a food processor (or mix by hand in a bowl). Transfer butter mixture on parchment paper or plastic wrap. Cover butter tightly and roll into a log. Place in refrigerator until firm. Enjoy!
CHIMICHURRI
Chimichurri is a condiment you can use on endless things, and you can enjoy it as a sauce or dip. Serve over fish, chicken, vegetables or with crackers.
INGREDIENTS
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½ cup olive oil (or flax oil for added omega 3 nutrition)
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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice as an alternative)
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½ to 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped finely
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¼ cup fresh basil or cilantro
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3-4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small red chili or 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
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½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasonings
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1 teaspoon salt
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Pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS
Finely chop fresh herbs and add to a bowl. Add remaining ingredients and mix. Chill for 1 to 2 hours and enjoy.