Fragrant, garden-fresh herbs are one of the simple joys of planting. Most herbs can be grown indoors or outside, and they thrive in containers on the windowsill or in pots on the patio. You can plant them in raised beds or right in the ground if you have well-draining soil and the right sunlight conditions. And above all, they are relatively easy to maintain—which makes them ideal for lake living.
Long prized for their curative properties, some herbs act as powerful anti-inflammatories or even aid with digestion, blood sugar levels, and kidney and brain functions. Some people enjoy planting herbs just for their fresh fragrances alone—but infuse them in your cooking, and your dishes will spring to life. Garden-fresh herbs offer an array of different flavors and aromas that can enrich the palate and bring depth to a variety of cuisines. This guide focuses on some of the most common herbs, their ideal culinary pairings, and some inspiring recipes you can try at the lake. Bon appétit!
Sweet Basil
One of the most popular garden-fresh herbs in the culinary world, basil offers a sweet yet slightly peppery flavor with a hint of anise. Its vibrant green leaves bring a delightfully fresh taste and aroma to salads, pasta, and sauces—most notably, the quintessential Italian basil pesto. Basil’s aromatic essence also complements Thai curries and Vietnamese pho, infusing dishes with a delicious herbal note. Other varieties include purple and Thai basil, differing slightly in leaf color, shape, and flavor intensity. Purple and sweet basil should be added at the end of cooking for maximum flavor. However, Thai basil’s more robust flavor can withstand high heat.
Looking for a fresh, light meal? You’ll love this interpretation of White Pizza with Shaved Vegetables and Pesto. Creamy white cheeses combine with basil, watercress, and fresh veggies on a homemade crust.
Cilantro
Cilantro’s love-hate relationship with the individual palate makes this popular herb all the more intriguing. Some describe it as a bright, citrusy flavor that adds a unique zing to all kinds of dishes, including Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian fare. While others might sneer at it with distaste, describing it as unpalatable and soapy. Nevertheless, it’s a favorite among many, especially in fresh salsa and guacamole, providing a refreshing contrast to more spicy flavors. It’s also used as a garnish in Thai soups and stir-fries, and Indian cuisine incorporates cilantro into spicy curries and chutneys.
Photo courtesy of Isa Zapata via Epicurious
Try a simple one-pan dish for a fresh take on this somewhat controversial herb. This bright and herbaceous Gorgeous Green Shrimp offers a vibrantly verdant presentation.
Rosemary
With its robust, pine-like aroma and slightly bitter taste, rosemary is a versatile herb that significantly enhances savory dishes. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is a key ingredient in Tuscan-inspired favorites such as chicken cacciatore, focaccia, and other Italian flatbreads. Commonly paired with roasted meats, including lamb, poultry, and grilled fish, rosemary lends a fragrant—even pungent—earthiness that balances beautifully with rich flavors. It is also highly compatible with roasted potatoes, and you can even add it to shortbreads and cakes for a sweet and savory dessert. Considered an evergreen, rosemary features needles and woody stems, both of which can be used in cooking.
Indulge in the savory, earthy flavors of this perfect Lemon-Rosemary-Garlic Chicken and Potatoes. Chicken legs and thighs make this dish extra juicy, and fresh rosemary brings an irresistible aroma.
Mint
Renowned for its cool, refreshing taste and invigorating aroma, mint is a beloved herb in both sweet and savory dishes. In Middle Eastern cuisine, mint is an essential ingredient in tabbouleh and lamb dishes, offering a fresh contrast to rich flavors. It’s also a popular addition to cocktails, including the renowned mint julep, the classic mojito, and desserts like chocolate mint ice cream or fruit salads. Peppermint and spearmint are the most widely used varieties in the U.S., and both have a rough yet fuzzy texture with jagged green leaves.
The official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, the mighty Mint Julep has endured for centuries. Served in a classic silver cup over chipped ice, it’s like sipping on a cool breeze.
Parsley
With its mild, slightly peppery taste, flat-leaved Italian parsley is one of the most widely used herbs globally. However, its curly cousin does not deliver the same bite, making it considerably more bland. Italian parsley acts as a palate-cleanser, and its versatility makes it an essential component of garnishes, sauces, and salads, such as tabbouleh—a Middle Eastern salad featuring bulgur, parsley, mint, and tomatoes. Parsley also brightens up creamy egg and pasta recipes and seafood dishes like grilled fish or shrimp scampi, adding a fresh herbal note.
Indulge in the herbal flavor sensation of this delicious Spring Tabbouleh. A blend of parsley, mint, and scallions combines with couscous, lentils, asparagus, and fava beans for a fragrant garden-fresh meal.
Thyme
Known for its subtle, earthy flavor with hints of mint and lemon, thyme is a fundamental herb in French and Mediterranean cuisines. Its aromatic leaves pair pleasantly with roasted vegetables, meats, and hearty stews, imparting depth and complexity to dishes. One of the essential ingredients in the classic French herbs de Provence, Thyme mixes especially well with sage, lavender, basil, and other herbs and spices. Thyme also shines in marinades, sauces, and stuffing for poultry or game meats, enhancing their savory profiles.
Thyme’s amicable nature makes it the perfect companion to this creative Grilled Lemon & Thyme Lemonade recipe. Grilled lemons and thyme meld with a honey syrup tinged with almond extract.
For a more extensive list of herbs to grow indoors or in your garden, visit Southern Living. Cheers to a fragrant and flavorful spring at the lake!