Fresh herbs are absolute superstars when it comes to injecting a boost of antioxidants and a real zing of fresh flavour into our meals. And now that spring is here, so are the freshest of the fresh herbs! So here are some hacks to include these beauties in your day to day…

BUY THEM FRESH AND STORE THEM APPROPRIATELY

Food waste sucks, but no one reading this would be a stranger to finding droopy bunches of herbs in their kitchen or fridge. When buying fresh herbs like coriander or basil – make sure you grab the bunch that isn’t wilting. The fresher and happier it looks, the longer it will last. Bright green soft herbs should be stored standing in a glass of water, covered with a plastic bag. Woodsy herbs should be stored wrapped in a damp kitchen or paper towel in a sealed container.

TIMING IS KEY

The point during your cooking at which you should add your herbs depends entirely on which herbs you’re using. Fresh and delicate herbs like basil, dill and coriander leaves should be added at the end of the cooking process, as over cooking ruins and eliminates the flavour. Sturdier herbs like rosemary, bay leaves and thyme are meant to be added earlier in the process to help flavour the entire meal.

REMEMBER, YOU DON’T ALWAYS HAVE TO COOK THEM

Fresh herbs are fabulous in salads, drinks (think fresh ice teas and mocktails!), and even as toast toppers to add a little zing.

Need a bit of guidance on what to use your fresh herbs with? Check out our spring favourites list below…

Dill: Fish, cream and cottage cheese, pickles, potatoes, eggs

Basil: tomato, melons, berries, peaches, eggs, red onion

Coriander: Avocado, lentil dishes, chicken, lamb, mango, pineapple

Mint: Salmon, yoghurt, fruit salads, ice teas, lamb

Parsley: Everything? Baked vegies, pastas, cold bean or couscous salads, risotto, soups

Rosemary: Most meats, brussel sprouts, beans, lemon, pumpkin

Posted by Shahna Sarpi

Shahna is a qualified nutritionist passionate about helping people live a nourished life through healthy eating and lifestyle practices. Utilising a whole foods approach to nutrition, Shahna aims to educate and inspire people to become their healthiest selves. With a love of food and being in the kitchen, she enjoys cooking up a storm and creating healthy recipes that everyone will enjoy.