How To Use These Five Popular Herbs in Different Ways

Herbs aren't only great with food. Check out how you can make something special with five of the most popular varieties.

Creamy Garlic Basil Butter

Grind 15 basil leaves, four garlic cloves and half a teaspoon of black pepper in a food processor. Spoon in a cup of butter, mix and refrigerate. Creamy Garlic Basil Butter tastes great with garlic bread and melted into mashed potatoes.

Soothing Oregano Tea

Many people believe oregano's peppery, slightly bitter taste soothes sore throats and indigestion. Place a tea strainer with two teaspoons of oregano on a mug and pour in boiling water, letting it brew for 2-4 minutes before drinking.

Spicy Cilantro Vinegar

Fill a glass jar with half a cup of cilantro, a small red pepper, one garlic clove, three slices of ginger root and two cups of red wine vinegar. Infuse in the sealed jar for at least 20 minutes. It's great on cooked greens and potatoes.

Vitalizing Parsley Smoothie

Spin 0.35 oz of parsley, 4.94 oz of cucumber, 0.28 oz of ginger root, 8.8 fl oz of coconut water, and a large ripe banana in a blender. Maybe add a splash of lime juice for some Vitamin C.

Fragrant Mint Potpourri

Tie small bundles of washed and dried mint stems, cut some slits in paper bags, put some bundles in each bag and secure with an elastic band — then hang them to dry for two weeks. Remove the dried leaves and place them in a wicker basket or a jar with warm water.