Give Your Meals A Flavor Boost for National Herb Week

Did you know that sage can improve brain function and memory? That’s right, sage, along with many other herbs, is packed with tremendous health benefits. In addition to nutritional benefits, herbs play an important role in the culinary world by enhancing flavors and have been celebrated for their medicinal properties around the world.

The first week of May always kicks off the start of National Herb Week. Herbs, depending on the type, come packed with nutritional benefits working as antioxidants, anti-cancer agents, immune boosters, and pain relievers.

What is also so great about herbs is they can be used as a salt replacer, without reducing flavor. By using herbs versus sodium in meals, you can kick up the flavor of your meals and reap plenty of health benefits along with it.

Herbalicious Herbs!

There are a ton of different herbs all with various uses. Depending on your tastebuds and preferences you may opt for choosing one over another. However, certain herbs have been shown to have tremendous impacts on health and pair great with everyday dishes.

Basil: Packed with vitamins, minerals, as well as antioxidants, basil is rich in calcium for bone health as well as Vitamin K to aid in blood clotting. The antioxidants found in basil come in the form of beta carotene and anthocyanins, helping protect your body’s cells from free radicals that can cause chronic disease. Also, certain types of basil such as sweet basil have been shown to improve blood sugar levels and cardiovascular health.

Uses: Perfect for sprinkling over pizza, adding to soups or sauces, and make a great addition to salads.

Mint: Often used in aromatherapy, mint has many benefits. It has been shown to improve gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, irritable bowel symptoms, and can help fight nausea.

Uses: Add some chopped mint to cut up watermelon or pineapple for a refreshing salad. Or, add chopped mint leaves to a cup of hot water for the perfect peppermint tea.

Rosemary: The active ingredient in Rosemary is rosmarinic acid, which has anti-inflammatory effects. Rosmarinic acid has been shown to decrease allergy symptoms, improve nasal congestion, and improve brain functioning.

Uses: Great for chicken dishes and can be used to create homemade marinades and pesto.

Sage: Rich in nutrients such as vitamin K and loaded with antioxidants. The active components in sage, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and rosmarinic acid (also found in rosemary) have been shown to lower cancer risk and improve brain function. Also, sage has the potential to lower LDL cholesterol, the bad cholesterol, and raise HDL, the good cholesterol.

Uses: Pairs well with chicken, lamb, and stews. Also great for baked dishes as a condiment.

Experimenting with Herbs

It’s time to be creative with your herbs! Discover new ways to use them below.

Seasoning Blends: Cooking should be flavorful! Create your own seasoning blends by using a blend of chopped fresh herbs. If you are purchasing store-bought blends, always check the label for sodium. Try to opt for a “low-sodium” or “no salt added” version for heart health.

Add Herbs to Beverages:You probably have some herbal tea in your pantry, or you can give homemade herbal tea a shot. Chop up some sage or mint to make a hot tea, and pair with lemon. You can also add some fresh herbs to your water the next time you hydrate for added flavor and benefits.

Add to Uncooked Dishes: Herbs are great when used fresh. Chopping up herbs such as basil or mint make the perfect addition to your favorite salad dishes. For more flavor, add in chopped herbs several hours before eating.

Pasta Seasoning: Skip the salt and season your pasta water or finished dish with chopped basil, parsley, or oregano.

Plant a Small Herb Garden: Planting a small herb garden is a great way to always have herbs handy and ready to use when cooking. Research some easy ways to start your own herb garden right at home.

Herbs are a great way to give your meals the flavor kick they need. With all the varieties and nutritional benefits, herbs are something worth including in your next meal.

Your Turn to Take Action: What are some of your favorite herbs to use when cooking? Let me know in the comments below!