A closely cropped photograph of a person chopping fresh herbs on a wooden chopping board
September 26, 2024

Herb Heroes: Flavour Packed Ways to Unwaste

Categories: Meal Inspo

Fresh herbs add incredible flavour and aroma to dishes, but they can quickly wilt and lose their vibrant qualities if not used in time. Instead of tossing out those herbs that are on the brink, consider these creative ways to make the most of them and unwaste! From pesto to infused oils, there’s plenty you can do to prevent waste and enhance your meals.

To keep your herbs fresher for longer, store them like cut flowers – but in the fridge. Try putting your bunch of herbs in a glass with some water in the fridge.

 

Perfect Pesto

One of the most versatile uses for herbs is making pesto. While basil is the classic choice, you can use almost any herb, including parsley, coriander, or even dill.

Blend your chosen herbs with nuts (like pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds), garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Use it as a pasta sauce, sandwich spread or drizzled over roasted vegetables.

Herb-Infused Oils

Lock in those herb flavours like a pro! Toss your favourite (even wilted) herbs in olive oil, warm it up just enough to release all thair aromas and goodness, then strain and store it and in airtight bottle. Now you’ve got a killer infused oil ready to ramp up your cooking or create next-level salad dressings.

Herb Butters

Turn those wilted herbs around and into flavour-packed herb butters that take any dish up a notch! Just mix softened butter with finely chopped herbs, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Roll it into a log, wrap it up in cling film or baking paper, and chill. Now you’ve got a rich, mouthwatering butter ready to melt over meats, veggies, or spread on warm bread for an instant flavour bomb.

Stocks

Add fresh herbs to soups and stocks for a flavour boost. If you have a variety of herbs, they can be combined to create a rich and aromatic broth. Use wilted herbs to create a delicious stock. Simmer them with onions, carrots, and celery for a nourishing base for soups and sauces.

Freeze Now, Enjoy Anytime

If you can’t use your herbs right away, freezing is a fantastic way to preserve them.
Finely chop herbs, mix with olive oil, and pour into ice cube trays. Freeze and use the cubes in cooking as needed, or bundle herbs together and freeze them in a bag. Use them directly in soups or stews or pasta sauce for instant flavour.