Different Types of Herbs: Find Your Next Flavor Fling

You’ve heard the phrase, there’s plenty of fish in the sea – but we’re pitching a new one: there’s plenty of herbs in the garden. Let’s imagine your local farmer’s market is a dating app, and the herbs you pass by are possible suitors. It’s time to read their profiles and see who you’d swipe right on! 

Different Types of Herbs: Find Your Next Flavor Fling

Mint

Hey there! I’m Mint, the cool and refreshing herb you’ve been looking for. I love adding a burst of freshness to everything from cocktails to desserts. With my vibrant green appearance and invigorating aroma, I’m always the life of the party.

I’m a bit of a renaissance herb and can be used for a wide array of dishes. Some of my go-tos are a Strawberry Balsamic Mint Jam, Gnocchi With Mint Pesto, and of course, Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream.  

My ideal first date would be enjoying a mojito in the full sun to partial shade, away from everyone else. Yes, I’m a social butterfly, however, when you plant me it’s very important to put me in a contained area or your entire yard will be filled with me, me, and more me.

I’m here to bring excitement to your life, but don’t worry, if you miss your shot with me now, you’ll get another chance. In fact, I’m perennial, meaning I’ll be back every year. ;)

Basil

Hi, I’m Basil, the aromatic herb with a flair for the Mediterranean. My friends call me a culinary chameleon, as I love being the star of so many dishes. Some of my favorites include pesto sauces, Caprese salads, pizzas, and soups.

My favorite thing to do in the summer is sunbathe. I thrive and grow the best in 6 to 8 hours of full sun daily. However, I’m pretty particular on how I like to get my sun tan. I’m not a fan of being seeded directly into the soil. Typically, I enjoy starting as a smaller plant purchased at a nursery or spending time in the tanning bed, aka indoors under grow lights.

Check out some delicious dishes I’m featured in! Summer Squash and Basil Pasta, Caprese Eggs Benedict, or Lemon-Herb Tuna Steaks with Potatoes.

Chives

What’s up I’m Chives, the slender and sophisticated herb that loves to add a mild oniony twist to your meals.  

Some of my favorite hobbies include being sprinkled atop baked potatoes, resting on bagels with cream cheese and smoked salmon, or spicing up a gorgeous egg’s Benedict. I also love to bring a bright color and oniony flavor to dressings, dips, oils, marinades, potato-based dishes, quiches, scrambled eggs, or even butter.

My friends call me the cool-season crop as I excel in the spring and fall – not too hot, not too cold. Although I am drought tolerant, I find staying hydrated consistently throughout the growing season puts me in tip top shape. I am a bit of an introvert, so I really value my personal space. I find I am at my best when I’m in my own pot indoors or outside 6-12 inches apart.

If you’re curious about some of my best work, check out these recipes: Roast Salmon and Asparagus with Lemon Chive Butter, Roasted Rainbow Carrots, Cheesy Breakfast Potatoes, or a Skillet Frittata.

Dill

Howdy, I’m Dill. I’m a feathery and flavorful herb with a delicate front and bold personality. My fresh, slightly tangy taste brings a unique twist to everything from creamy dips to roasted veggies.

I’m a bit of a pickle connoisseur. In fact, not to brag, but if you’re into burgers, hotdogs, and sandwiches all with juicy dill pickles, you can thank me for that. But I can get classy, don't worry. Check me out for dishes like Lemon Tortellini, Zucchini Fritters, or a Parmesan Herb Dutch Baby with Prosciutto and Burrata.

Much like my other herb friends, I love the sun. Put me in 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily and I’ll flourish. However, wind is not my vibe. I prefer a spot protected from high winds because my tall, hollow stalks can easily blow over if not staked.

Although I’m the star of most seafood dishes, there’s no catfish here, I’m the real dill.

Oregano

Hey, I’m Oregano, or in Greek “joy of the mountain” (humble brag). I’m usually attracted to anything involving tomatoes like pizza, pasta, and chili, but I’m open to spicing things up.

I’m actually a great addition to cooked summer vegetables, a Greek salad, kabobs, roasted potatoes, or any egg dish.

Speaking of summer, it’s my favorite season! I love to bask in the sun for like 6 to 8 hours a day with only about 8 to 10 inches of space. Although you can find me in any local pizza joint, I do like to class things up regularly, including my grooming routine. After I grow to about 4 inches tall, I must be trimmed lightly to encourage a denser and bushier plant.

And don’t worry about me, I’m a pretty independent herb. In fact, I’m self-seeding, so I’ll easily grow back. Want to see some of my latest dishes? Try this Butternut Squash Chili, Jambalaya, Vegetarian Skillet Nachos, or a Simple Skillet Lasagna.

Rosemary

Oh hello I’m Rosemary. Although my needlelike leaves already make me easy to identify, you can usually smell my refreshing and aromatic breeze from miles away. I’ve been described as a lot of things: minty, sage-like, peppery. But it doesn’t matter what you call me, as long as you call me.

Full disclosure: I'm a bit obsessed with the holidays. Lucky for you, that means you get to taste some of my favorites that I’m featured in, like an Orange Glazed Ham, Buttery Mashed Potatoes, Sheet Pan Roasted Root Veggies, and these 5-Cheese Raviolis.

Quick plug: If you want to learn more about me (because who wouldn’t?), you can check Rosemary: Our Favorite Holiday Herb for more info on how to plant, grow, and cook with yours truly.

Thyme

Hey there! I’m Thyme. With my earthy, slightly minty flavor, I bring a touch of elegance and warmth to any dish. Whether it’s hearty stew, a zesty marinade, or a simple roast, I’m always ready to spice things up.

You’ll be happy to know that I’m pretty low maintenance. Of course I thrive in warm, sunny weather, but I don’t mind either free-draining soil or containers. After growing, I like to be dried, refrigerated, frozen, or preserved in oil or vinegar.

I’m actually featured in lots of delicious dishes. You can find me in dried beans, meat stews, and strong vegetables such as cabbage. I’m also a great addition to any slowly cooked soup, stew, vegetable, meat, or sauce. Some of my favorite hearty meals are a Spring Vegetable Pot Pie, Red Wine Braised Short Ribs, Irish Stew, and a Boeuf Bourguignon.

Didn’t find your spice-ial someone? Don’t worry! Check back later for information on even more herbs! In the meantime, browse recipes for more ways to use your favorite herbs.