Unlock the full potential of fresh herbs in the kitchen with this comprehensive guide, featuring practical tips and creative combinations from renowned chefs. Discover how to transform ordinary dishes into culinary masterpieces using herb-infused oils, butter, and more. Expert insights ensure every reader can infuse their cooking with the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs.
- Make Herb-Infused Oils and Butters
- Layer Herbs Throughout Cooking Process
- Create Homemade Herbal Oils or Dressings
- Incorporate Herbs Into Vegan Cream Sauces
- Add Herbs to Ice-Cold Soups
- Use Basic Poultry Seasoning Mix
- Incorporate Herbs Into Sauces and Dressings
- Make Homemade Herb Butter
- Add Herbs to Salads and Grain Bowls
- Create Herb-Based Broths
- Toss Herbs into Fresh Garden Salads
- Pair Herbs with Smoked Foods
- Brighten Pasta Dishes with Fresh Herbs
- Mix Thai Basil and Mint for Salad
- Elevate Flavors with Fresh Herb Trio
- Use Basil and Cilantro in Recipes
- Season Dishes with Parsley, Dill, and Chives
- Use Herbs in Elegant Desserts
- Infuse Tea with Fresh Herbs
Make Herb-Infused Oils and Butters
I love using fresh herbs because they add vibrant, fresh flavors to any dish. One of my favorite ways to incorporate them is by making herb-infused oils and butters. These are fantastic for drizzling over dishes, spreading on bread, or even sautéing vegetables. I also enjoy chopping fresh herbs and adding them to salads, soups, and stews. They bring a burst of freshness that enhances the overall taste of a meal.
When it comes to herb combinations, I have a few favorites that I find myself using repeatedly. I love the classic mix of basil, oregano, and thyme for Italian dishes—it’s perfect for tomato-based sauces and pizzas.
Lastly, I adore using parsley, tarragon, and chervil for a French touch. This trio is particularly wonderful in lighter dishes, adding subtle yet distinctive flavors. It’s all about finding what herbs complement each other and enhance the primary ingredients without overpowering them.
Jessica Randhawa, Head Chef and Owner, The Forked Spoon
Layer Herbs Throughout Cooking Process
Fresh herbs are essential to the vibrant, fresh flavors we create. One of our signature approaches is layering herbs throughout the cooking process—starting with robust herbs like thyme and rosemary in the base of dishes, then finishing with delicate ones like basil and chervil for brightness.
What truly excites me is creating unexpected herb combinations that elevate familiar dishes. For instance, we pair fresh mint and tarragon in our spring pea soup, which adds an elegant complexity that our clients consistently praise. For our roasted vegetables, we’ve perfected a blend of sage, thyme, and oregano that transforms simple seasonal produce into something extraordinary.
At a recent garden wedding in Boston, we featured our herb-forward Mediterranean platters. Each element showcased different herb combinations—lavender-honey goat cheese, rosemary-garlic roasted vegetables, and basil-mint pesto. The fragrant herbs enhanced the flavors and created a sensory experience that beautifully complemented the outdoor setting.
For those experimenting with fresh herbs, start by mastering classic pairs like basil and oregano for Mediterranean dishes or cilantro and mint for Asian-inspired cuisine. Always add hardy herbs early in cooking and delicate ones at the finish. Remember that fresh herbs should enhance, not overwhelm—it’s about finding that perfect balance that makes each dish sing.
Sara Eller, CEO & Founder, Sara’s Cooking
Create Homemade Herbal Oils or Dressings
Fresh herbs are one of my favorite ways to bring vibrant, natural flavors into my cooking. They’re delicious and packed with nutrients, which aligns perfectly with my focus on holistic health. I love how fresh herbs can transform a dish, elevating even the simplest meal into something special.
One of my favorite ways to use fresh herbs is to create homemade herbal oils or dressings. For example, I’ll combine olive oil with fresh rosemary and thyme, letting the flavors infuse for a few hours before drizzling it over roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. It’s such a simple touch, but it makes the dish feel fresh and elevated.
Regarding favorite herb combinations, I can’t resist the classic basil, parsley, and mint trio. I use it for a bright tabbouleh salad and a fresh pesto for zucchini noodles. The balance of flavors—basil’s sweetness, parsley’s earthiness, and mint’s cool brightness—works beautifully in so many dishes. Another combination I love is cilantro and dill, which I often mix into yogurt for a creamy herb sauce to pair with grilled fish or roasted eggplant.
I love using fresh herbs because they connect you to the earth. Growing your own, even if it’s just a small windowsill garden, is such a grounding experience. It’s a reminder of how natural ingredients can nourish your body and spirit. Plus, there’s no better way to experiment in the kitchen than picking a handful of herbs and letting them inspire you! Whether it’s a refreshing tea, a fragrant marinade, or a vibrant garnish, fresh herbs are truly the soul of any healthy, flavorful meal.
Daisy Cabral, Visionary Founder and CEO, Teami Blends
Incorporate Herbs Into Vegan Cream Sauces
My favorite way to use fresh herbs in cooking is in vegan cream sauces. Fresh herbs can completely transform a simple sauce into something vibrant and layered with flavor. They add a freshness that balances out the richness of the creamy base, making the dish feel lighter while still being satisfying.
To start, I usually create a base with cashews or silken tofu blended with a bit of water or plant-based milk for a smooth, creamy consistency. Once the base is ready, I bring it to life with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or tarragon, depending on the dish. Chopping the herbs finely and stirring them in towards the end of cooking preserves their flavor and aroma. Basil gives a classic Italian flair, while tarragon adds a slightly sweet, anise-like note that pairs beautifully with vegetables or roasted dishes.
What I love about this method is how versatile it is. A vegan cream sauce with herbs works beautifully over pasta, as a drizzle on roasted vegetables, or even as a dip for bread. Adding a squeeze of lemon and a touch of garlic enhances the flavor even more. The fresh herbs bring a bright, earthy quality that elevates the sauce beyond its creamy texture, making it delicious and nutritious.
Mushfiq Sarker, Chief Executive Officer, LaGrande Marketing
Add Herbs to Ice-Cold Soups
My favorite way to add fresh herbs is to make simple dishes a bit more exciting, and I also love to use them in ice-cold soups. In a recently made cucumber and yogurt soup, dill, mint, and parsley gave the soup an entirely new look. The recipe called for two tablespoons of each herb, but I doubled it for a rich, garden-fresh flavor. As an experiment, it illustrates how slight changes can add a whole new level to cooking.
I think parsley and cilantro provide a citrus-like brightness when used for lighter foods, such as salads or grain bowls. I like to experiment with unusual ingredients, such as fennel fronds and dill, for a roasted salmon glaze, which is sweet and savory at the same time. Herbs are the most malleable ingredient in my home—an extra teaspoon here and a couple of unlikely allies there can transform a meal and make it interesting and memorable.
Tyler Hull, Owner and General Manager, Modern Exterior
Use Basic Poultry Seasoning Mix
I always use a basic version of poultry seasoning—chopped rosemary, sage and thyme.
I’ve been whole food vegan for almost 20 years now (I only eat whole and minimally processed plants and avoid salt, oil, and sugar), so fresh herbs are an essential way to flavor my food, and this mix creates a lovely, savory flavor.
Typically, I start by frying some chopped onions with a little water to prevent sticking, and when they’ve softened, I add some chopped garlic and the herb mix, together with rice, lentils, beans, mushrooms, tomato sauce or whatever. After adding water, I let the pan simmer for around 25 mins. The herbs fill the whole house with a savory aroma.
(Okay, I admit it: most of the time I use dried herbs to save time. But whenever I do have more time, and on special occasions, fresh are the preferred option! I also usually use a spoonful of soy sauce for added flavor.)
I also love mixing fresh chopped lovage, parsley and/or chives with soups, hummus and other spreads, and many meals. Cilantro, curry leaves, and/or lemongrass are great in curries (usually chickpea), and you can’t beat fresh chopped basil with a lentil spaghetti bolognese, added just before serving. And fresh, roughly chopped mint leaves are wonderful with fruit or on top of a chocolate mousse made with silken tofu.
In the spring, I plan to experiment with adding foraged wild herbs (so called “weeds”) to salads, cooked wild greens etc. Wild herbs like garlic mustard, wild garlic, clover, purslane (very high in omega-3 fatty acids), lamb’s quarters, salsify and dandelion flowers, to name a few.
Gordon Mackenzie, Founder and editor of ecofriendly101.com
Incorporate Herbs Into Sauces and Dressings
One of my favorite ways to use fresh herbs in cooking is by incorporating them into sauces, dressings, and marinades. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint add vibrant flavors that elevate dishes, especially when paired with citrus or garlic. For example, I love making a simple basil pesto to toss with pasta or spread over grilled vegetables. Combining fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmigiano creates a fragrant, rich flavor.
My favorite herb combinations include rosemary and thyme with roasted food, especially lamb or chicken, as the earthy notes complement the savory richness. I also enjoy pairing dill and parsley with seafood dishes, like grilled salmon or shrimp, for a fresh, tangy contrast. Fresh herbs bring brightness and complexity that can’t be replicated by dried versions, making them essential in my cooking.
Steve Neher, CEO, Mail King USA
Make Homemade Herb Butter
I love using fresh herbs in my cooking because they can transform even the simplest dish into something amazing. One of my favorite ways to use them is making homemade herb butter. I’ll mix softened butter with finely chopped parsley, dill, and chives, and then I use it to top grilled foods or even spread it on warm bread—it’s so versatile and adds this rich, fresh flavor.
I also think fresh basil and mint together are incredible, especially in summer salads. I love tossing them with watermelon, feta, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s light, refreshing, and always a hit at gatherings.
Growing up, I remember my mom making chimichurri, which I still love to make. I use parsley, cilantro, garlic, and oregano blended with olive oil and red wine vinegar—it’s perfect on steak or roasted veggies.
Bitty Louk, CEO, No Dash of Gluten
Add Herbs to Salads and Grain Bowls
One of my favorite ways to use fresh herbs in cooking is by incorporating them into simple, fresh salads and grain bowls. I love the burst of flavor herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro add to a dish, elevating the overall taste without much effort.
For salads, I often use a combination of parsley and mint. This mix adds a refreshing, slightly tangy flavor that complements greens like arugula or spinach. I’ll toss these with some olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of garlic for a quick, healthy side dish.
I combine cilantro with lime in grain bowls for a vibrant, zesty profile that pairs well with quinoa, chickpeas, or roasted vegetables. Sometimes, I also mix rosemary and thyme with roasted potatoes or root vegetables, which adds an earthy, aromatic depth to the dish.
For cooking, I enjoy adding basil and oregano to tomato-based dishes, like pasta sauces or stews. Combining these herbs brings out the natural sweetness of tomatoes while adding layers of savory complexity.
Using fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also provides added nutrients. They’re an easy way to make everyday meals more exciting and flavorful.
Fawad langah, Director General, Best Diplomats
Create Herb-Based Broths
In my experience, fresh herbs bring a level of versatility to cooking that’s hard to match, and my favorite way to use them is in herb-based broths. For example, simmering parsley, thyme, and a touch of dill with garlic and lemon peel creates a light and fragrant base for soups or poached vegetables. I think this method enhances the flavor of simple ingredients without overpowering them. Using 2-3 sprigs of thyme with a handful of parsley has become my go-to for any broth-based dish, as it adds just the right amount of depth.
The best flavor combinations come from pairing herbs that unexpectedly balance each other. I’ve recently started mixing fennel fronds with dill in seafood dishes—it’s a perfect combination for roasted salmon or shrimp, blending sweetness with a subtle tang.
Antoinette Jackson, Creative Director & Founder, SuperBee
Toss Herbs into Fresh Garden Salads
Fresh herbs are one of my favorite ways to flavor any dish while keeping it natural and wholesome. I’m a big fan of simplicity, so I love tossing chopped basil and parsley into a fresh garden salad with a squeeze of lemon—it’s vibrant, refreshing, and celebrates the season’s flavors. I enjoy combining rosemary and thyme for heartier dishes, especially for roasted vegetables or chicken. Those herbs’ earthy, aromatic notes create such a comforting, savory balance.
Another favorite is mixing cilantro and mint for salsas or even a quick herbaceous chutney—it’s a game-changer for grilled foods or as a dip. Growing these herbs at home makes it even more special because there’s nothing better than snipping what you need right before cooking—it’s fresh, sustainable, and incredibly rewarding!
Tammy Sons, Founder, TN Nursery
Pair Herbs with Smoked Foods
Using fresh herbs in cooking is all about complementing and elevating the natural flavors of the ingredients you’re working with. I’ve found that pairing fresh herbs with smoked food can create incredible flavor profiles.
One of my favorite combinations is using thyme and parsley . The thyme adds a subtle, peppery taste, while parsley brings in a hint of freshness and color, perfect for balancing the smokiness from grilling. These herbs are tossed into a marinade or oil marinade before cooking or even sprinkled fresh just before serving.
Beyond barbecuing, experimenting with different herb combinations in our craft ales has been intriguing. Using herbs like basil and mint in specialty brews can add unexpected flavor and complexity. This approach teaches me that fresh herbs can transform a dish or drink from good to extraordinary and keep customers returning for novelty and familiarity.
Ryan Detwiler, Co-Founder, Stampede Barbecue
Brighten Pasta Dishes with Fresh Herbs
I grow a bunch of herbs in my kitchen and love tossing a handful of basil into a pasta dish right at the end. It just brightens everything up. It’s the same with cilantro. I throw it in tacos, salads, and almost everything in between. It instantly makes the dish so much fresher and alive.
Regarding combos, nothing tops rosemary and garlic for roasted veggies. Especially when roasting potatoes, the rosemary gives the potatoes an earthy flavor; when they roast, it gets crispy and fragrant. It’s simple but so satisfying. That smell alone is enough to make anyone hungry.
Gary Gray, CEO, CouponChief.com
Mix Thai Basil and Mint for Salad
I’ve always wanted to try Thai basil in my cooking to see how it would taste when combined with other herbs. Some time ago, I decided to chop it and mix it with mint to make salads, and after this culinary experience, I was left wondering why I hadn’t tried it sooner. From that moment, I knew this was now my favorite herb combination because it was entirely out of this world.
After combining the two herbs and adding perfectly cut carrots and tomatoes, I tossed them in a bowl and mixed them with salt to get a fresh-looking salad. But its allure was far beyond that, as I loved how it tasted. The taste was sweet, spicy, and refreshing, and I like these varying flavors most about it.
Of course, you could also use other ingredients as long as they satisfy your cravings. However, I recommend this salad dressing because it has layers of flavor that are just too hard to resist.
Ryan Mcclellan, Marketing Manager, Character Counter
Elevate Flavors with Fresh Herb Trio
I hosted my family’s Christmas for the first time last week, and I was genuinely shocked by how many fresh herbs I needed to buy to make the meal feel complete. I’ve always tended to eschew fresh herbs in my cooking, preferring dried versions for their convenience and longevity. However, this holiday experience was a game-changer. The fresh sage, thyme, and rosemary I added to my dishes elevated the flavors and filled my home with an incredible, welcoming scent that lingered throughout the day. It was a sensory experience I didn’t want to wait an entire year to feel again. So, I’ve vowed to carry this habit forward. This trio need not be reserved for special occasions—they add a depth of flavor and fragrance that can make even a simple meal feel elegant.
Sarah Williams, Founder and Principal, Recruit Healthcare
Use Basil and Cilantro in Recipes
Basil is my #1 go-to for a lot of the food I make at home. And I’m not just talking about making pesto sauce. When I roast potatoes, fresh basil is my favorite herb to include. Since I’m a big fan of Mexican-inspired recipes, I like to use fresh cilantro with lime in everything from grilled chicken to homemade guacamole. I know that cilantro isn’t for everyone, but it’s one of my favorites. I also enjoy using fresh rosemary when I make bread. There’s just something about it that makes the bread taste even better. And when I make salads, I like to use fresh dill, parsley, and mint and pair that with a homemade lemon vinaigrette. This combo is also really good on fish and chicken.
Brooks Manley, Agency Owner, Web Designer and SEO Strategist, Brooks Manley Marketing
Season Dishes with Parsley, Dill, and Chives
I often cook at home and love using fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives. I find that parsley is a fairly versatile herb. I use it for a fresh touch in recipes for things like potato salad, as well as a garnish for soups. I eat a lot of herring and salmon, which I usually season with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon. Dill is also surprisingly great in potato-based dishes. Here in Germany, you’ll see fresh chives used in a lot of things. They bring a mild onion flavor from quark (a type of fresh cheese) to scrambled eggs. A popular combination here is dill and parsley, which I think work well together in sauces or as a seasoning for potatoes.
Max Thum, Founder, Meersburg24
Use Herbs in Elegant Desserts
I love using fresh herbs in elegant desserts, and it’s usually a place where no one expects to find them. Two of my favorite combinations are lemon + thyme + marjoram, and apple + sage.
I’ve made stunning desserts with these combinations and the taste testers have said nothing but good things. The key is to create balance. You don’t want the herbs to be so loud and present that it’s all a person can taste. Instead, you want to balance your ratios so when someone takes a bite, they get the sweet, the floral, and the herbal notes.
Kathlena The Allergy Chef, Owner, Free and Friendly Foods
Infuse Tea with Fresh Herbs
Incorporating fresh herbs into your daily meals can really give you a nice boost to your health and overall well-being, not to mention the obvious, creating incredible tasting dishes. One of my favorite ways to do this is infusing my tea with herbs.
The beauty of herb-infused tea lies in its versatility. Mix and match herbs to suit your mood, health needs, or season. One of my favorites is lavender and chamomile, a nice soothing blend that helps me to relax after a long day.
For a lift-up, I combine mint and ginger. This amazing combination gets me up and going every time. When we enter the colder months, I try a combination of thyme and lemon, ensuring my immune system can fight off colds and flu.
The greatest thing about herb-infused tea is it is rather easy to make, simply steep a handful of fresh herbs in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes, and voila you have a delicious, refreshing, and healthy drink. You can always add a bit of honey if you are looking for something sweeter.
Jan Brandrup, CEO, Neurogan Health
Add Herbs to Homemade Bread and Pastries
Fresh herbs can take homemade bread and pastries to the next level. Try incorporating rosemary, thyme, or oregano directly into your bread dough for savory recipes. The result is an aromatic loaf that pairs perfectly with soups and salads.
For pastries, herbs like lavender, basil, or mint can add subtle, unexpected flavor to scones, shortbread cookies, or even muffins. Lavender with lemon zest is a delightful combination for a fragrant and bright scone.
Pro Tip: Always chop herbs finely before adding them to doughs to ensure even distribution and flavor throughout.
Infuse Oils for Grilling and Roasting
Infused oils aren’t just for drizzling but also for grilling and roasting. Create an herb marinade by blending olive oil with rosemary, sage, and garlic, then brushing it over vegetables or proteins before grilling. This method locks in moisture and adds depth of flavor.
For roasting, use thyme and oregano-infused oil on root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or parsnips for a crispy, herbaceous finish.
Pro Tip: Let the herbs sit in the oil for at least an hour before using to maximize flavor.
Boost Beverages with Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs aren’t limited to tea—they also work wonders in cocktails, mocktails, and even flavored waters. Mint and basil are popular choices for mojitos and lemonades, while rosemary adds a sophisticated touch to gin-based cocktails.
For a refreshing herbal water, combine cucumber slices with mint and basil in a pitcher of ice water. Let it chill for an hour, and you’ll have a simple, flavorful drink perfect for hot days or entertaining.
Pro Tip: Freeze herbs in ice cubes for a visually stunning way to enhance drinks at gatherings.
Use Herbs as Natural Food Garnishes
Fresh herbs make the perfect garnish, bringing both flavor and visual appeal to dishes. A sprinkle of parsley or chives on soups or stews adds a pop of color, while a sprig of rosemary atop roasted foods an elegant touch.
For desserts, try garnishing with mint leaves, lavender sprigs, or a touch of thyme to complement fruity or chocolatey flavors. These small touches can elevate the presentation and make any dish feel gourmet.
Pro Tip: Keep herbs fresh longer by storing them in a glass of water in the fridge, loosely covered with a plastic bag.
Herb-Infused Vinegars and Syrups
Infused vinegar and syrups are another great way to capture the essence of fresh herbs. Herb-infused vinegar—made with basil, tarragon, or dill—can enhance salads, marinades, and even cocktails.
For syrups, simmer sugar and water with herbs like mint, thyme, or rosemary until the sugar dissolves. Strain the mixture and use it to sweeten drinks, drizzle over pancakes, or glaze roasted fruits.
Pro Tip: Store infused syrups in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to keep them fresh.