Growing herbs yourself can save you a lot of money in the long run. Tending to herbs is fairly simple, and buying a plant is about as costly as buying a bushel of the fresh herb in the store anyway. Herbs have a lot of benefits and while you might need to use a larger amount of fresh herbs than dried ones, the taste is better overall. You can begin growing a plant from a portion you buy at the store or purchase a plant altogether. Once you start growing an herb plant, cut a small portion to use in your cooking (but be careful to not over cut it).
One of the easiest plants to deal with is basil, and it does not require tons of water or sunlight. Basil is used in lots of Italian food and Thai food and hosts many benefits. Some of its medical benefits are that it helps respiratory problems, colds, arthritis, and migraines. Once you have a basil plant growing, things like fresh pesto, Insalata Caprese, and bruschetta are right at your tips!
Here’s a good Insalata Caprese recipe. Wash tomatoes and basil and then slice tomatoes and mozzarella. Layer the tomato, mozzarella, and then basil and drizzle with a bit of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Cilantro also has tons of benefits and is used in Mexican, Asian, and Caribbean food. You can add it to fresh salsa, soups, salads, etc. Cilantro helps cleanse the body of toxins, keeps bugs away, and flourishes in kitchen windows. It can also be used for a twist on fresh pesto.
Rosemary is a strong herb that grows in bushes. It is a great addition to meat, fish, or soup. Rosemary is full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. It can also help reduce water retention, minimize skin aging, and improve liver function. A little goes a long way, and throwing them in roasted potatoes make for a great side or breakfast dish.
In order to receive 100% of the vitamins and health benefits, I recommend buying a plant at your nearest Home Depot.
