1. Choose your favorite herb seeds. It may be best to choose herbs from the same species because they have similar growing needs. For example, lavender, rosemary, dill, and oregano all need bright light, good drainage, and moderate temperatures. You can do some research on-line to find out which herbs are in the same species.
2. Choose a pot with good drainage and fill with regular potting soil.
3. Plant your herb seeds following the directions on package. Individual varieties of herbs may need more space or be planted deeper in the soil.
4. Place pot in an area that will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily (or according to the directions on the seed package)
5. Herbs need only light watering. Mist with a spray bottle every other day.

Need help choosing which herbs to plant? Here is a list of some popular herbs and uses.

• Basil: The sweetness with subtle spiciness is known best for playing a star role in many Mediterranean dishes. Its flavor is paired well with garlic and often used pesto.
• Chives: A relative of the onion, chives bring the same flavor without the harsh bit of the onion. Because the flavor is mostly lost in drying, fresh chives are ideal for raw consumption.
• Cilantro: This is very popular in Mexican cooking but is also part of some Asian dishes. Cilantro has a slightly peppery taste and is paired well with spicy peppers used in Mexican cooking.
• Dill Weed: The licorice flavor is typically used in pickling but is also popular for dips, soups, or over vegetables. Dried dill will keep for a few months if stored in a dry, dark place; the seeds will keep almost forever!
• Oregano: This spice is common in many types of cuisine: Mexican, Italian, Greek, and Spanish. Oregano is actually a member of the mint family and works well in soups, on vegetables, or to season meat.
• Parsley: As one of the most versatile herbs, parsley has a mild and un-dominating (but complementary) flavor. It combines well with almost any herb and is often added to plated dishes for ornamentation.

What are some of your favorite herbs? What herb combinations do you like to use in your summer cooking?

Research Assistance by Kaylee O’Connell

Whether you are using fresh or dried parsley, here are some of my favorite (and easy) ways to add it into your cooking.

4 Ways to Get Your PARSLEY On…

1. Oven-baked seasoned fries. Try tossing potato wedges in olive oil then seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, parmesan cheese, dried parsley and chilli powder before popping in the oven for a healthier alternative of deep-fries french fries!
2. Garnish soups, baked/mashed potatoes and pasta. Sprinkle some dried parsley on any one of your favorite dishes to please the eyes!
3. Parsley Pesto. Combine fresh parsley, olive oil, salt and some parmesan cheese in a blender and use this pesto on tops of sandwiches, salads, etc.
4. Lemon Parsley Chicken. Marinate chicken breasts in some olive oil, parsley and lemon and bake in the oven for a simple, healthy dinner idea!

It’s so easy to add herbs/spices into your every day cooking. With just one dash, sprinkle, spoonful…you get all the antioxidant benefits your body needs to fight away free radicals. Keep in mind that when using in recipes, 1 tablespoon of a dried herb is equal to 3 tablespoons fresh! Which ever one you decide to choose, always remember why you’re using them in the first place.

Have you tried any of the above? What are some of your favorite ways to use parsley?

Research assistance provided by Monica Lobo, RD.