Hurray it’s fresh herb season! Nothing wakes up the palate after a long winters nap, like fresh herbs. Basil, mint, chives, and dill I could go on and on.  You can grow your own so easily and its fun for kids as well, why not give it a try. I like to get a head start on the growing process and purchase the small plants already started.

Last year I got this great chocolate mint potted herb at the Farmers Market. I put that on my salads, sandwiches, made fresh tea and put it on pasta, but really I mostly just ate the leaves fresh off the plant every time I walked by it.  What would tomatoes be without fresh basil, really?, It’s like PB&J  but for grown-ups.

It’s really easy to make your own herbal iced teas. Brew a strong pot of your favorite tea. Pour into a glass container, fill the rest with filtered water then place in the fridge. Add your favorite herbs and fruits to create delightful combinations.

Try adding some fresh herbs to your Greek yogurt. I make a dip from it, chopped dill and fresh lemon. YUM! Have you ever added fresh herbs to your favorite vinegar or oils?  What about freezing herbs?

Herbs are great in salad dressings and of course making your own is so much better.  With the snow gone, it is easier to find the BBQ. Why not fire it up and invite friends over. When they ask what to bring, ask them to bring something involving fresh herbs. This could get interesting. Make your favorite salad and experiment with the dressing. Salad dressings are really simple. I like 2 parts oil (olive, hemp, fish, Udo’s) to 3 parts sour (vinegar, lemons, limes). Then add any extras like chives, lemon balm, or cilantro. Go crazy, it’s your party.

Life, like fresh food, should be celebrated.  Throw some fresh herbs on your salad this evening!