Every spring I plant an herb garden of all my favorites. I plant a container garden because it’s easier for me to maintain and I can keep it free from the lovely to look at but pesky rabbits.
I started growing my own herbs about 5 years ago when my gas grill and I became best friends. See, I discovered that cooking with fresh herbs mades a huge difference in the way my food taste. Using fresh herbs as seasoning or in marinades elevates the flavor of grilled chicken, shrimp and other seafoods I love to eat. Since I wanted to have fresh herbs on hand it made sense to maintain a garden.
Here’s what you’ll need to start your garden:
- Herb plants of your choice.
- You could start with seeds but I buy plants. They’re inexpensive & foolproof.
- Potting soil
- Flower pots if you don’t plant in the ground
- Miracle Gro (Optional)
Here’s the herbs I’ll plant and what to use them for:
Rosemary
- Rosemary is one of my favorite herbs to cook with. It gives an excellent taste to lamb and chicken.
- Rosemary is an great source of iron, calcium and vitamin B6.
- Rosemary is a hardy plant too. I have an older Rosemary plant I’ve had for the last 2 years.
Thyme
- Thyme adds an excellent flavor to fish and chicken when grilling.
- Thyme is an great source of vitamin A & C, and fiber. It is also a high in antioxidants.
Basil
- There’s nothing like fresh pesto and Basil is a main ingredient. All you need is fresh Basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil and some parmesan cheese. blend in a food processor and enjoy.
- I read that because Basil contains phyto-chemicals it is effective at reducing tension.
- Also, Basil is high in iron so it’s good for women to eat during or after you menstruate.
Oregano
- I grow Oregano because I absolutely love the smell of it.
- Oregano is a natural anti-inflammatory so you should keep it on hand.
- You can use Oregano in many non-italian dishes. I mince fresh Oregano and add it to scrambled eggs or an omelet. It’s lovely.
I am also planting Parsley, Dill, Cilantro and Mint in my herb garden. Since I’ll grow more than I use I’ll make herb bundles and give my extras to my neighbors and friends.
If you want to raise the bar on your cooking this summer, why not plant an herb garden?
Until next time….
Cost so much less and have plenty to share with neighbors, family friends.