Simply Summer: Taking Advantage Of Fresh Herbs

Herbs are some of the greatest (and easiest) complements to dishes: the sweet scent of basil as a garnish for salads or pastas; fresh tarragon mixed into a chicken salad; rosemary scattered on a lemon-covered fillet of fish; or fresh mint sprinkled on top of a dessert of fruit and honey. The possibilities are endless, especially in the summertime. The beauty of herbs is that they add life, character, and a refreshing taste of summer to dishes — plus, they are super healthy and good for you. Mixed into vinaigrettes, used in pesto, or muddled into cocktails, herbs are incredibly versatile and fragrant.

Try substituting different herbs for the usual stand-bys in recipes: like using mint or basil instead of cilantro in guacamole or using a combination of dill and mint in a tabouli salad.

Whether you're growing your own pots of these gorgeous green plants or picking up a bundle at the farmers' market, try incorporating them in one of the dishes below at your next dinner. 

 

Warm Chicken with Green Beans and Chard

Nigel Slater offers a simple but elegant salad recipe that's topped with grilled or roasted chicken breast.

 

 

 

 

Slow-Roast Chicken with Tarragon and Peas

A colorful recipe that works well in the spring or summer. 

 

 

 

 

 

 Fresh Basil Vinaigrette

A light and refreshing dressing that works atop light greens or a combination of beans. 

 

 

 

 

Grilled Tuna Rolls

Snuggled between a hot dog bun, this fantastic summer recipe is topped with a cilantro and shallot vinaigrette. 

 

 

 

White Fish with Lemon, Capers, Mustard, and Parsley

Perfect for lemon lovers, this light and tasty flaky fish is topped with aromatic parsley to finish. 

 

 

 

Cucumber Salad with Dill

A refreshing combination that makes a great side dish to fish or grilled meats. 

 

 

 

More Recipes with Fresh Summer Herbs... 

Crisp Pork Slices with Parsley Sauce and New Potatoes

Strawberry Salad with Basil and Balsamic

Swordfish Bacon Kebabs with Cilantro Gremolata

Scallops with Chorizo, Arugula, and Dill

Tarragon Chicken Salad with Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing