7 Herbs For a Lovely Kitchen Garden
The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body, but the soul. — Alfred Austin
With sunnier, warmer days now here in Virginia, I have been focusing heavily on cultivating what I think will be summer to remember in terms of the herbs grown in my kitchen garden. As a novice gardener nestled in Zone 7, I've discovered the joy of cultivating a kitchen garden bursting with an array of aromatic herbs — cooking with herbs is not just a culinary delight but also a therapeutic pastime, offering a sensory experience like no other. What I adore most about herb gardening is the forgiving nature of these plants, making them perfect companions for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike. Picture this: on a sweltering summer's day, there's nothing quite like tending to my herb pots with a glass of rosé in hand, surrounded by the intoxicating scents of basil, lavender, mint, and more.
Basil
A staple in any kitchen garden, basil shines in refreshing mocktails (or cocktails!), summer pasta salads, and homemade pesto, infusing dishes with its vibrant flavor and aroma.
Lavender
Not just a feast for the eyes, lavender delights the senses when dried, adding an elegant touch to teas and desserts with its delicate floral notes.
Mint
Another must-have herb, mint adds a burst of freshness to cocktails and brightens up summery seafood dishes with its crisp, cool flavor.
Tarragon
A true workhorse in the kitchen garden, tarragon lends its distinct anise-like flavor to poultry and seafood dishes, elevating them to new heights of deliciousness.
Chives
As delightful to eat as they are to garnish, chives are a versatile herb that pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, from omelets to salads and beyond.
Oregano
If you haven't experienced the magic of fresh oregano, now's the time! This robust herb lasts well into fall and adds depth to pasta dishes and stews on chilly nights.
Rosemary
Fragrant and versatile, rosemary is a rustic garnish that enhances everything from lemon drizzle cake to champagne cocktails, adding a touch of Mediterranean charm to any dish.
With these lovely herbs gracing your kitchen garden, you'll be well on your way to culinary bliss this summer, one fragrant sprig at a time.
