Vegging at the Shore
By Marci Lutsky
It’s usually around this point in the summer when I start receiving messages from friends and neighbors asking if I want some of the vegetables and herbs they have grown. They always ask me because they know I will say yes. Do you feel like the herbs in your garden are growing faster than you can use them? If so, here are some suggestions to help you use that bounty.
Marinades
Whether you are grilling fish, meat, tofu or vegetables, herbs are perfect in marinades mixed with olive oil. My favorites in marinades are rosemary, thyme and oregano.
Salad Dressings
There is no need to use store bought dressing when you have herbs at your fingertips. Add a handful of herbs to olive oil and Dijon mustard. Fresh tarragon is my go-to herb for salad dressing. For creamy dressings, I love using dill.
Pesto
Is there anything better than homemade pesto with fresh basil? Add it to bread along with fresh mozzarella and tomatoes from the farmers market for a perfect caprese sandwich.
Drinks
Have you ever tried infused water? Yes, it’s a thing and it’s so refreshing in summer. Add mint and cucumber to ice water. It’s perfect for hot days. If you want to make some grownup cocktails, nothing beats fresh mint in mojitos.
Garnishes
Fresh herbs can make a dish pop with flavor. Sometimes I think I’m in the minority for my love of cilantro, but in my opinion, it’s one of the best ways to add flavor to enchiladas, rice or fajitas. Parsley is another herb that I use frequently. One of my favorite vegetarian dishes is tofu piccata. When I add chopped fresh parsley, it makes the whole dish come together.
If you can’t keep up with your herbs, drying and freezing them is a great way to enjoy them all winter. Tie some string around a bunch of herbs and hang them upside down until they have dried. You will be thankful for those dried herbs in January when you make a big pot of soup.
Embrace those fresh herbs and start cooking! What are your favorite ways to enjoy fresh herbs? I would love to hear from you.
