How to Incorporate Herbs into Your Meal Planning for Healthier and Tastier Dishes

When it comes to meal planning, are you in a rut? Need some inspiration to incorporate herbs in your meals? Here are some suggestions and tips for your meal planning.

Herb and spice pairing guide for the week

1. Italian-inspired Meals

   * Herbs: Basil, Oregano, Rosemary

   * Spices: Black pepper, Red Pepper Flakes, Garlic

   *Perfect for Pasta dishes, roasted vegetables, grilled meats.

2. Mexican-inspired Meals

   * Herbs: Cilantro, Oregano

   *Spices: Cumin, Chili Powder, Paprika, Lime Juice

   *Perfect for Tacos, enchiladas, grilled corn, rice bowls, and Salsa

3. Middle Eastern-inspired Meals

   *Herbs: Mint, Parsley, Dill

   *Spices: Sumac, Cumin, Coriander

   *Perfect for grilled lamb, hummus, tabbouleh

4. Asian-Inspired Meals

   *Herbs: Thai Basil, Lemongrass, Cilantro

   *Spices: Ginger, Star Anise, Five-Spice Powder

   *Perfect for stir-fries, soups, marinades

5. Indian-inspired Meals

   *Herbs: Curry, Coriander, Mint

   *Spices: Turmeric, Garam Masala, Mustard Seeds

   * Perfect for Curries, lentil dishes, vegetable sides

6. Everyday Comfort Food

   *Herbs: Thyme, Sage, Bay Leaves

   *Spices: Garlic, Nutmeg, Smoked Paprika

   *Perfect for soups, casseroles, roasted meats

Cooking Tips and Preservation

1. Tip 1: Storing Fresh Herbs: Wrap in damp paper towel and store in fridge to keep them fresh longer

2. Tip 2: Freezing Herbs: Freeze herbs like cilantro or basil in olive oil in ice cube trays to preserve their flavor.

3. Tipe 3: Drying Herbs: Hang fresh herbs to air dry or use a dehydrator for quicker results. Once dried, store them in a airtight container. Here is the dehydrator I use uf you want to check it out. https://amzn.to/47XikBp (I am an Amazon Affiliate Associate and may earn commission on qualified purchases at no extra cost to you.)

Meal planning does not have to be overwhelming, especially if you grow your own herbs or have access to fresh vegetables and herbs. By using the herbs you grow, you can create flavorful, nutritious meals without the need for fancy ingredients. Remember, even a simple dish can be transformed with the right seasoning. Start small, plan just a few meals each week, and soon you will find that meal planning becomes a fun, creative process that saves time and adds variety to your table.

Ready to get started? If you would like, I can send you my WEEKLY Meal Planner with Herb and Spice suggestions. This will help take the guess work out of your next grocery list! Just jot me a quick note stating you want it. Integrityfarmandhomes@gmail.com