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Herbs

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Photo of several types of herbs growing in a garden
Close-up photo of a bunch of cilantro
Close-up photo of mint
Photo credits (left to right): Photo credits (top to bottom): Flickr: OakleyOriginals; Flickr: Qfamily; Flickr: Anthony Cramp

Foods Included

Cilantro, Basil, Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley, Curly-leaf parsley, Rosemary, Mint, Thyme, Sage, Tarragon

Description

Herbs are strong-smelling, flavorful plants that are added to dishes to enhance flavor. In addition to adding flavor, herbs easily add nutrients and antioxidants your food. You can grow them at home in small pots or in a garden so you always have them on hand.

Buy It

  • Choose herbs that are brightly colored and sturdy.
  • Avoid herbs that are brown or yellowed, or wilted.
  • Herbs should have a strong, pleasant smell.

Store It

  • Remove rubber band, wash, and dry the herbs.
  • Wrap fresh herbs in a damp paper towel and keep in a plastic bag or sealed container.
  • Most soft herbs (basil, cilantro, mint) can keep this way for 5-8 days. Parsley can last up to 2 weeks.
  • Hardy herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano) can last up to 3 weeks.

Cook It

  • Tear herbs with your hands or chop with a sharp knife.
  • Use herbs to add a punch of flavor to any dish, like soups and stews, meats, vegetable side dishes, and even fruit.
  • Adding herbs to meat or vegetables on the grill will help protect from carcinogens produced by grilling.
  • It's best to add delicate herbs like basil at the end of cooking to retain flavor.
  • Heartier herbs, like rosemary, can be added to dishes early, especially for roasting meats in the oven.
  • Add a cool flavor to fruit salad by adding mint leaves.

Why It's Great

  • Vitamin C keeps our immune system strong.
  • Vitamins C and K help our bodies heal quickly.
  • Iron is essential for red blood cells and muscles.

Try It

Lemongrass Chicken Soup
1 hr 35 mins
Photo of prepared Lemongrass Chicken Soup
Herbed Vegetable Combo
20 mins
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Mango-Cucumber Wrap
15 mins
Mango Cucumber Wrap
Herbed Potato Salad
20 mins
Photo of the prepared recipe
Salsa Fresca
15 mins
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Spinach and Cilantro Salad
10 mins
Photo of the prepared recipe

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