The Fresh Herbs That I Always Keep in My Kitchen
There are a few secret weapons that I believe every kitchen should keep on hand. One of mine? Fresh herbs… especially during peak season. When it comes to fresh herbs for spring cooking, there’s no shortage of ways to brighten and enhance your favorite dishes. I mean, just think about it… how many of your favorite recipes call for one (or more) fresh herbs? Probably a lot! As we enter the spring season, I thought it was the perfect time to share my favorite fresh herbs for spring cooking, how I use them, and how I store them so they stay fresh longer!
Fresh herbs add such incredible depth in the kitchen. However, if you’re new to cooking with fresh herbs, the produce section can be a bit daunting. If you’re not using your fresh herbs to their fullest potential… This blog is for you! Each herb brings something different to the table, and once you have an understanding of these flavor profiles, the room for culinary creativity is endless! With that being said, allow me to walk you through the most commonly used fresh herbs for spring cooking in my kitchen, alongside my tips for buying and storing these culinary gems!
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Tiffy’s Tips for Buying and Storing Fresh Herbs
- Opt for firm and vibrant. When selecting your herbs, look for vibrant, crisp, and aromatic leaves with firm stems. Avoid any that are wilted, drooping, or discolored.
- Keep refrigerated. If you were to ask me how to keep herbs fresh longer, this would be my #1 piece of advice. Keeping herbs refrigerated will ensure you get the most longevity out of your herbs.
- Store properly. Trim the ends of your herbs and put them upright in a glass with about one inch of water. Loosely cover herbs with plastic wrap. I also recommend this fabulous container that’s made specifically for storing herbs.
- Don’t forget to refill. Some herbs can last up to three weeks if stored properly. Remember to refill the water in your herbs as needed.
- Utilize them! These fresh herbs are there for a reason, play around with them in different dishes and you’ll find your own favorite fresh herbs for spring cooking in no time.
Fresh Herbs 101
While the list of fresh herbs is rather extensive, there are a handful that I utilize enough to keep my fridge fully stocked with them at most times.. Especially when it comes to the spring season.
Basil
Basil is one of the most recognizable and beloved culinary herbs, and for good reason. Its bright, slightly sweet flavor instantly makes a dish feel fresh and vibrant.
Uses: I especially love using basil in pasta dishes, salads, and homemade sauces. It pairs beautifully with tomatoes, olive oil, and lemon, which makes it perfect for spring and summer cooking. Even a simple sprinkle of fresh basil can completely transform a dish. Basil is also wonderful for entertaining because it adds both flavor and a beautiful pop of color to the plate.
Parsley
Parsley is one of the most versatile herbs you can cook with. While many people think of it simply as a garnish, it actually adds a fresh, clean flavor that brightens almost any dish.
Uses: I love using parsley in salads, vegetable dishes, and sauces. It’s also a wonderful finishing herb for chicken, fish, and roasted vegetables. Parsley has a way of balancing richer dishes and making everything taste a little lighter and brighter. Fresh parsley is also one of the key ingredients in my Skewered Shrimp Shooters, which is a personal favorite and a recipe I make often when I am looking for effortless entertaining.
Thyme
Thyme is one of my favorite herbs for savory cooking. It has a slightly earthy, aromatic flavor that works beautifully in slow-cooked dishes, roasted meats, and vegetables.
Uses: I often use thyme when roasting chicken or preparing comforting dishes that need a little extra depth of flavor. It pairs especially well with garlic, lemon, and olive oil. If you’re cooking something simple like roasted vegetables or potatoes, adding fresh thyme can instantly make the dish feel more elevated.
Chives
Chives are delicate, mild, and wonderfully fresh. Their light onion flavor makes them perfect for finishing dishes without overpowering the other ingredients.
Uses: I love using chives on scrambled eggs, baked potatoes, salads, and dips. They also add a beautiful finishing touch when sprinkled over soups or roasted vegetables. Chives are one of those herbs that make a dish look instantly more polished while adding just the right amount of flavor.
Rosemary
Rosemary has a bold, fragrant flavor that is perfect for hearty dishes. Its pine-like aroma pairs beautifully with roasted meats, potatoes, and rustic breads.
Uses: When I’m roasting chicken or preparing a comforting dinner, rosemary is often one of the first herbs I reach for. It brings warmth and depth to a dish and makes the entire kitchen smell incredible while it cooks. Rosemary also pairs beautifully with olive oil and lemon, making it a wonderful herb to use for both everyday cooking and special occasions. Rosemary is excellent as a garnish for dishes, and cocktails.
Cooking with Fresh Herbs
One of the easiest ways to elevate your cooking is simply by incorporating fresh herbs whenever possible. They add layers of flavor, color, and freshness that make even the simplest recipes feel special.
Fresh herbs are versatile, easy to find, and can be used in a wide variety of dishes. If you’re just starting to cook with fresh herbs, these five recipes are a wonderful place to begin:
// Tomato Basil Soup: Basil // Skewered Shrimp Shooters: Parsley // Deviled Eggs: Chives // //Western Rose Cocktail: Rosemary // Bolognese Sauce: Thyme // My Mother’s Salsa Recipe: Cilantro //
