Healthy Summer Herbs to Enjoy Now

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Whether you have an herb box in your window, pots on your patio or a complete kitchen garden, now is the time to enjoy summer herbs. Nothing gives more flavor and freshness to your foods than herbs. Here are some of our favorites to enjoy this season.

Basil: This highly fragrant and popular herb is a mainstay in the Mediterranean diet. Mix chopped basil with garlic and olive oil for a delicious pesto or delight in its fresh flavor with fresh summer tomato slides and mozzarella cheese.

Why we love basil's health benefits: It's oils and extracts have antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Plus, it offers vitamin K, vitamin A, manganese and magnesium. 

Mint: Fresh mint is so versatile and adds a cool burst of flavor to a wide range of dishes. You can toss it in a salad, add a few leaves in your favorite beverage or mix it with fresh berries and more.

Why we love mint's health benefits: Peppermint is a good source of manganese, copper, and vitamin C and it is very effective at relieving indigestion associated with digestive disorders like GERD and IBS.

Oregano: Warm and aromatic, oregano is the perfect herb to add flavor to Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines. Sprinkle this easy care herb in salads, add it to your favorite pasta sauce or flavor balsamic vinaigrette.

Why we love oregano's health benefits: Oregano has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which are helpful for your immune system. It is also an excellent source of vitamin K and a very good source of manganese. It is also a good source of iron, dietary fiber, and calcium.

Rosemary: Fresh rosemary has a pine-like flavor and aroma that is indispensable in many kitchens. The leaves are commonly used to add a burst of flavor to a frittata, potatoes and other roasted vegetables or chicken and lamb dishes.

Why we love rosemary's health benefits: Rosemary is useful for stimulating the immune system, increasing circulation, and improving digestion. It also contains anti-inflammatory compounds.

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