Oregano

Oregano has a strong flavour, adds warmth to dishes, and a hint of subtle sweetness, yet most people think of pizza and pasta sauce when they think of Oregano. It is commonly used  in marinades for chicken, lamb and beef dishes, and I always add it to soups and stews, or toss a handful of fresh leaves into a green salad for a kick. Ingredients that pair well with oregano include garlic, basil, onion, and thyme.  Fresh oregano leaves [or micro herbs] are an excellent garnish to add in moderation at the end of cooking, particularly to hearty tomato based dishes or meats. 

Oregano doesn’t just taste fabulous and look good, it is also an herb that boasts some potent health benefits.. It is high in antioxidants- which are compounds that help fight damage from harmful free radicals in the body.  The build up of free radicals has been linked to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease,  and may help fight off bacteria and viruses.  

Oregano grows very easily, year round in our herb garden.  It doesn’t seem to attract pests and is hearty.  It is quite strong when used fresh, so sometimes less is best.  Fresh vs Dried?  Both have their place in the kitchen, and I always keep a jar of dried oregano in the cupboard.

Oregano needs to be in your kitchen; it smells divine, turns an average sauce into a fabulous sauce and may help improve your health.  It’s a no-brainer.