There is nothing more satisfying and simple than walking out to your garden while cooking and simply snipping off the herbs you need to add more flavour to your meal. The garden fresh taste can’t be beat and it’s much more convenient (and less expensive) than heading to the grocery store whenever you need fresh herbs. Herbs are one of the easiest plants to grow and it’s the perfect opportunity to start experimenting with a home garden, since you can manage with very limited space.

In addition to adding flavour to your favourite dishes, herbs are filled with antioxidants and essential nutrients. They can give your meal the extra punch that it needs.

Here’s a list of 10 of my favourite herbs to grow in my garden at home and what to use them for. Happy gardening. 🙂

Basil

Basil is full of antioxidants and is a defence against low blood sugar. It is the ultimate complement to tomatoes and also pairs great with onions, garlic, and olives. One of the most popular uses for fresh basil is to make basil pesto, which is a summer staple in our house!

Oregano

In cooking, Oregano is often used for Greek-style dishes. One of my favourite uses for fresh oregano is to make Greek salad dressing or Greek chicken. It also makes an excellent seasoning for egg dishes, meats, poultry, legumes, and breads.

Chives

Chives are an excellent source of beta-carotene and Vitamin C. They are a cousin of scallions, onions, and leeks, and they have a delicate but slightly sharp flavour. They can also be used as a garnish, adding a bit of brightness to any dish. Chives work well with eggs, fish, potatoes, salads, shellfish, and soups.

Rosemary

Rosemary is one of the most flavourful herbs and is great for adding to things like poultry, meats, and vegetables. It also goes well with grains, mushrooms, onions, peas, potatoes, and spinach.

Mint

Fresh mint is a staple herb in our garden. It can be used to make peppermint tea or added to chocolate desserts. You can also use it in drinks like mojitos or mint juleps or even just add it to a glass of cold water with lemon for a refreshing iced tea.

Dill

Fresh dill is often added to seafood dishes, yogurt sauces, vinegars, potato salads, and fresh-baked breads and soups. It can also be used as a garnish like parsley and of course, to make dill pickles!

Cilantro

Cilantro is a love-it-or-hate-it herb that is high in vitamin C, as well as several vitamins and minerals. Practically any savoury Indian dish will be finished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. It can also be included in sauces, salsa, and pesto for use with chicken, fish, or vegetables.

Sage

Sage is an aromatic herb that is great for seasoning meats, sauces, and vegetables. It’s most popular in the fall when it’s used in Thanksgiving stuffing and pumpkin or squash dishes. Sage also has a lot of medicinal uses and can help ease the symptoms of stomach pain, asthma, depression, and memory loss.

Lavender

Lavender is not only beautiful and fragrant in the garden, but it also has lots of uses in the kitchen and throughout the house. Its claim to fame is its ability to enhance relaxation and promote restful sleep. It can also be added to recipes, such as shortbread or scones or it can be used to make a calming tea and refreshing lemonade.

Parsley

Parsley is a mildly bitter herb that can enhance the flavour and presentation of your foods. It’s a great herb to spice up your veggie dishes and can also provide nutritional benefits to the bones and immune system. To enjoy, throw a few sprigs into your favourite green juice, use it to top your morning eggs, or add it to your homemade salad dressing.

What are some of your favourite herbs to grow in the garden?