Quick Bites: Herbal Essences

It’s finally green outside, and you’ve stocked away soups and stews along with last season’s winter coats. Summer is around the corner, a season prime for lighter fare, fruits and vegetables, and, of course, fresh herbs.

Basil, rosemary, sage, thyme, cilantro: With the rebirth of victory gardens and local eating, you’re likely familiar with these herbal standouts. Basil—sweet, minty, even slightly spicy—is nearly addictive and the perfect counter to zesty tomato sauce. Its vibrant, green leaves punch up any Italian dish, but it also zings up Asian cuisine (such as Thai curries and Vietnamese noodles). Woody, piney rosemary and grassy sage lend depth to pork dishes. Lemony thyme complements earthy mushrooms, and cilantro’s bright flavor somehow balances the heat of spicy Mexican or Indian, while imparting a complex profile all its own.

But beyond their culinary wizardry, herbs are nature’s apothecary. Ancient Greeks wore rosemary wreaths for memory and used lavender to freshen clothing (and themselves). Rosemary and basil have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and also high levels of potassium, iron, and calcium. Holy basil, a sister of the more common sweet basil, is a near cure-all. Chew on its raw leaves to reduce stress and promote longevity. Sage and thyme can cure respiratory ailments, and research suggests that cilantro may help remove toxic mercury from the body. Oh, and no need for Tums—cilantro also curbs indigestion.

Herbs are the Meryl Streep of the garden, taking on multiple roles effortlessly and beautifully. Fragrant, healthful, and flavorful, they are an easy, inexpensive way to boost your home, cooking, body—and bottom line.