As the seasons change, our taste buds follow suit. In the spring, we crave bright and citrusy flavors, while summer brings us warm and herbaceous notes. Autumn introduces a rich and earthy tone, and winter’s chill can only be soothed by a comforting cup of tea or a fragrant cookie. But what if you could capture these seasonal flavors in one place? Look no further! This article presents 18 refreshing herbal recipes to enjoy throughout the year.
From classic lemonade infused with mint and basil to hearty beef stew infused with bay leaves, each recipe showcases the versatility and charm of herbs. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to experiment with cooking, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and bring the essence of nature to your table.
Mint and Basil Infused Lemonade
This sweet and tangy lemonade gets a refreshing twist with the addition of mint and basil, perfect for hot summer days or as a unique drink for outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Add the chopped mint and basil leaves to the pitcher.
4. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
6. Serve over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in 30 minutes with infusion time)
Rosemary Garlic Roasted Chicken
Elevate your Sunday roast with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy notes of rosemary with the pungency of garlic. This classic combination is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and minced garlic.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lavender Honey Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these buttery shortbread cookies infused with the subtle charm of lavender and sweetness of honey. Perfect for a sophisticated snack or dessert, these treats are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons lavender syrup (or dried lavender buds and honey to taste)
– Optional: edible gold dust or sparkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and lavender syrup (or honey and dried lavender); mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Thyme and Lemon Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with these flavorful roasted potatoes infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of thyme. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and squeeze lemon juice over the potatoes. Toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chamomile and Ginger Tea
This herbal tea blend combines the calming properties of chamomile with the spicy warmth of ginger, creating a perfect remedy for unwinding after a long day.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon dried chamomile flowers
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup boiling water
– Honey or lemon to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a tea infuser or heat-resistant cup, combine the dried chamomile flowers and sliced ginger.
2. Pour in the boiling water, making sure that all the ingredients are fully saturated.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for 5-7 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a tea infuser or a piece of cheesecloth.
5. Add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Enjoy your soothing and calming Chamomile and Ginger Tea!
Cilantro Lime Rice
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your meals with this simple and aromatic Cilantro Lime Rice recipe. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Parsley and Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic shrimp dish, featuring a zesty parsley and garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (55g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, garlic, and parsley until well combined.
3. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly with the butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Dill and Yogurt Cucumber Salad
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing salad, perfect for hot summer days. The combination of cool cucumber, creamy yogurt, and tangy dill is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cucumbers, sliced
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the cucumbers and toss gently to coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Sage Brown Butter Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of brown butter and sage with al dente pasta, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tsp chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes or until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chopped sage leaves.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the brown butter mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Coconut Curry Soup
This vibrant and aromatic soup combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the brightness of lemongrass, perfect for a cozy night in. With a hint of spice from the curry powder and a pop of freshness from the cilantro, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
2. Add the curry powder and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, add the coconut milk and lemongrass, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Tarragon Roasted Carrots
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of carrots while adding a bright, anise-like flavor from tarragon. Perfect as a side dish or added to salads, these roasted carrots are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, tarragon, honey, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through cooking time.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Oregano and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful bruschetta recipe, featuring fresh oregano and juicy tomatoes. Perfect for a quick gathering or as a snack to enjoy on its own.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped oregano.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the toasted baguette slices, then top with tomato mixture.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and balsamic vinegar (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chive and Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potato game with this simple recipe that adds a punch of flavor from chives and sour cream. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, sour cream, chives, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Pesto Pasta with Pine Nuts
Combine the freshness of basil with the nutty flavor of pine nuts, and you’ll get a deliciously simple yet satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic (minced), salt, and pepper. Process until well combined and slightly smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top until the pesto sauce forms.
4. Add lemon juice and process for another 30 seconds to combine.
5. Toss cooked pasta with basil pesto sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Pesto preparation time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 13-15 minutes
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
This refreshing ice cream recipe combines the invigorating zing of peppermint with the richness of dark chocolate chips. Perfect for hot summer days or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and cocoa powder until well combined.
2. Add peppermint extract and whisk until smooth.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add dark chocolate chips.
6. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Marjoram and Garlic Roasted Mushrooms
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of mushrooms with the pungency of garlic and the subtle herbal notes of marjoram, creating a simple yet sophisticated side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried marjoram
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss mushrooms with olive oil, garlic, and marjoram until evenly coated.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and caramelized.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fennel and Orange Salad
This refreshing salad combines the anise flavor of fennel with the sweetness of oranges, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. The crunch from the fennel and the juiciness from the orange make this a great combination.
Ingredients:
– 2 large fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
– 4 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel and orange segments.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Squeeze the white wine vinegar over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Bay Leaf Infused Beef Stew
This rich and flavorful stew is perfect for a cozy evening meal. The bay leaves add a subtle yet aromatic depth to the dish, complementing the tender beef and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until vegetables are slightly tender.
3. Add beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
5. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to refresh your cooking routine with these 18 delightful herbal recipes, each one perfect for its respective season. From cooling summer treats like Mint and Basil Infused Lemonade and Cilantro Lime Rice, to hearty winter dishes like Sage Brown Butter Pasta and Bay Leaf Infused Beef Stew, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Plus, discover creative ways to incorporate herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano into your favorite recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these refreshing herbal recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity.
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