Cooking with Fresh Herbs: Tips and Recipes

Using fresh herbs can enhance the flavor of any dish and add a touch of freshness to your cooking. Whether you have access to a garden or buy them from the market, fresh herbs are a great way to elevate the taste of your meals. Here are some tips and recipes for cooking with fresh herbs.

Tips for Cooking with Fresh Herbs

Always wash your fresh herbs before using them to remove any dirt or impurities.
To keep your herbs fresh for longer, you can store them in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel.
When adding fresh herbs to a dish, it's best to add them towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their flavor.
If you have an abundance of fresh herbs, you can also freeze them in airtight containers for future use.

Recipes

Herb-Roasted Chicken

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken
A handful of fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the chicken in a roasting pan and rub it with olive oil, garlic, and salt and pepper.
Stuff the cavity with the fresh herbs.
Roast the chicken for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Caprese Salad

Ingredients:

4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
1 pound fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
A handful of fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons of balsamic glaze
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Arrange the tomato and mozzarella slices on a platter.
Tuck fresh basil leaves in between the slices.
Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and season with salt and pepper.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Incorporating fresh herbs into your cooking can truly make a difference in the taste and aroma of your dishes. Experiment with different herbs and try out new recipes to discover the perfect combination for your palate.