The Ultimate Guide to Cooking with Fresh Herbs

When summer arrives, its time to fire up the grill and load up on picnic-basket favorites. But a good cook will tell you it’s also the best time to shelve that old jar of dried seasoning. Why? Fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro and thyme are at their peak freshness. Check out our best recipes featuring fresh herbs.

Herbs are an easy way to add life to dull dishes. As such, they’re the secret weapon for many professional cooks. These tasty little plants add vitality to every bite. Toss some basil into a caprese salad or garnish tacos with fresh cilantro and your family might just start calling you chef. (Psst! Our food editor James Schend shares how to prep them the right way.)
 

Herbs come in a variety of forms and flavors, but deciding which to use can be tricky. Follow this helpful guide to learn the best uses for some of summer’s freshest (and finest) ingredients:

Basil

One of the more popular herbs in the United States, basil has many varieties. Perhaps the most common are sweet (Italian) basil and Thai purple basil. Both are floral and clove-like, with powerful sweetness and a hint of pepper. Although most commonly associated with Mediterranean cooking, basil is a fragrant companion to Asian and Indian foods and adds a refreshing balance to spicier dishes.

For maximum flavor and to prevent browning, add basil at the end of cooking. Remove the leaves and discard the stems, as the leaves hold the most flavor. Basil is a delightful accompaniment to summer tomatoes, grilled chicken, curry and mozzarella cheese. Get more recipes for fresh basil.

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Blueberry, Basil and Goat Cheese Pie

For a good friend moving to L.A., I made a blueberry goat cheese pie. Bake one, share it and start a precious memory. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin Go to Recipe

Caprese Salad

My husband and I love Caprese salad, but not the high prices we pay for it in restaurants. Here, we created our own version which tastes incredibly close, if not better, than any restaurant version we've tried. —Melissa Pearson, Sandy, Utah

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Prosciutto-Pesto Breakfast Strata

I'd never tried prosciutto before this recipe, and it instantly made me a die-hard fan! The layers of flavor in this dish are brilliant, making it well worth the time and a must for your recipe box. Leftover pesto? Use it up in these recipes using pesto. —Vicki Anderson, Farmington, Minnesota

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Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce

This recipe brings the restaurant to my home kitchen. And it’s easy, too! The meal comes together quickly and fills my kitchen with wonderful aromas. If there are any leftovers, they're just as good reheated the next day. —Kathi Jones-DelMonte, Rochester, New York

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Bella Basil Raspberry Tea

Beautiful basil and fresh raspberries lend bright color and refreshing flavor to this grown-up iced tea. You’ll love the fun fizz and make-ahead convenience for parties. —Laurie Bock, Lynden, Washington

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Peanut Butter, Chicken and Basil Sandwich

Stay with me, here. These classic Thai flavors work on so much more than noodles...try 'em on a sandwich and you won't be disappointed. —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor

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Sue’s Spicy Tomato Basil Tortellini

A friend remarked about a similar baked tortellini dish at a restaurant, so I wanted to try re-creating it for her at home. My stovetop version makes it weeknight easy. —Cynthia Gerken, Naples, Florida

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Basil Tomato Tart

I received this tomato tart recipe from a good friend of mine. It's a fun way to use up fresh tomatoes from the garden, and it reminds me a lot of pizza.—Connie Stumpf, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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Pesto Shrimp Pasta

A dash of red pepper puts zip in this lively main dish from Gloria Jones Grenga of Newnan, Georgia.

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Nectarine, Basil and Clementine Infused Water

Nectarine and basil may sound a little strange, but trust us, this combination is a real winner. A few slices of clementine seal the deal. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Grilled Bruschetta

This is my go-to appetizer in the summer when tomatoes and basil are fresh from the garden. The balsamic glaze takes this bruschetta recipe over the top. I like to use a Tuscan herb- or basil-infused olive oil for this. But, it's great with just plain olive oil, too. —Brittany Allyn, Mesa, Arizona

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Meat Lover's Pizza Rice Skillet

My son named this "pizza rice" after I threw together a quick dinner from what I had in the fridge and pantry. Add any other pizza topping ingredients you desire. I often add black olive slices or mushrooms. Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan

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BLT Quinoa Bowls

I absolutely love a BLT with sliced avocado and an egg. Recently, I've been trying out grain bowls, and I thought the flavors of my favorite sandwich would work really well. My family agreed! —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

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Italian Cloud Eggs

Drop egg yolks on nests of whipped Italian-seasoned egg whites, then bake in a cast-iron skillet. Dreamy!—Matthew Hass, Franklin, Wisconsin

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Chicken Pesto Meatballs

These tender, pesto-stuffed meatballs get gobbled up in our house. They're short on ingredients, but packed with flavor. I always make a double batch, freezing the other half for a busy night. —Ally Billhorn, Wilton, Iowa

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Grilled Basil Chicken

This cinch of a marinade gives the chicken lots of Italian flavor. Serve the chicken with a tossed green salad and garlic breadsticks, or put slices on a ciabatta roll along with lettuce, tomato and mozzarella cheese for a zesty handheld meal. —Lisa Moriarty, Wilton, New Hampshire

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Orzo with Parmesan & Basil

Dried basil adds its rich herb flavor to this creamy and delicious skillet side dish that's table-ready in just minutes! Thanks to Anna Chaney of Antigo, Wisconsin for sharing her recipe.

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Seared Salmon with Strawberry Basil Relish

Salmon and basil take a sweet new approach when topped off with a relish of strawberries, honey and pepper. —Stacy Mullens, Gresham, Oregon

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Tasty Marinated Tomatoes

My niece introduced me to this colorful recipe some time ago. I make it when I have buffets or large gatherings because it can be prepared hours ahead. This is a wonderful way to use a bumper crop of tomatoes. —Myrtle Matthews, Marietta, Georgia

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Shrimp Pasta Primavera

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. So when I invite that special guy to dinner, I like to prepare something equally wonderful. This well-seasoned pasta dish has lots of flavor, and it won't hurt your budget! —Shari Neff, Takoma Park, Maryland

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Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes

Relax after work with a cold drink while this savory chicken marinates in an herby tomato blend for an hour, then toss it on the grill. It's one of those basil recipes that tastes just like summer. —Laura Lunardi, West Chester, Pennsylvania

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Caprese Macaroni Salad

When fresh tomatoes and basil are abundant in the summer, I like to make this wonderful Caprese macaroni salad. —Debbie Glasscock, Conway, Arkansas

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Lemon Basil Salmon

My husband came up with this easy, foil-packet recipe for flaky, fork-tender salmon. This recipe is a winner. —Marianne Bauman Modesto, CA

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Lemon Chicken with Orzo

Here's a dish that's light and summery but still filling. My kids love all the veggies...for real! If you like a lot of lemon, stir in an extra splash of lemon juice just before serving. —Shannon Humphrey, Hampton, Virginia

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Caprese Salad Kabobs

Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California

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Basil-Tomato Grilled Cheese

The tastes of summer abound in this easy Italian-style grilled cheese sandwich. Not only is it delicious, it's super-fast, so you can get back to those summer outdoor activities. —Sylvia Schmitt, Sun City, Arizona

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Cherry Tomato & Basil Focaccia

When I had 80 pounds of tomatoes, I got creative incorporating them into meals. Sometimes I slice this loaf into squares to make sandwiches with fresh mozzarella cheese and deli meats. —Katie Ferrier, Houston, Texas

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Peach-Basil Lemonade Slush

This chilly slush with peaches, lemon juice and garden-fresh basil is hands-down the best lemonade ever. It tastes just like summer. —Dana Hinck, Pensacola, Florida

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Eggplant Parmesan

We really like eggplant and would rather have it baked than fried. This can be served as a side dish or main dish. —Donna Wardlow-Keating, Omaha, Nebraska

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Grilled Sausage-Basil Pizzas

We love basil recipes, and these easy little pizzas are a wonderful change of pace from the classic cookout menu. Let everybody go crazy with the toppings. —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida

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Flavorful Tomato Soup

A cookbook recipe called for ingredients I didn’t have on hand, so I improvised and came up with this. I often make it for friends at church, and I’ve shared the recipe many times. -Jean Sullivan, Denver, Colorado

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Caprese Chicken with Bacon

Smoky bacon, fresh basil, ripe tomatoes and gooey mozzarella top this appealing chicken caprese recipe. The aroma as it bakes is irresistible! —Tammy Hayden, Quincy, Michigan

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Basil and Parsley Pesto

Toss this herby parsley pesto with pasta, spread it over sandwiches or stir it into an Italian-style soup, like minestrone. —Lorraine Fina Stevenski, Land O’ Lakes, Florida

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Favorite Baked Spaghetti

This baked spaghetti is my grandchildren's most-loved dish. It feels like such a special dinner and is so cozy for winter. —Louise Miller, Westminster, Maryland

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Over-the-Rainbow Minestrone

This colorful soup is vegetarian-friendly and full of fresh flavors from a rainbow of vegetables. You can use any multicolored pasta in place of the spirals. —Crystal Schlueter, Northglenn, Colorado

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Feta Tomato-Basil Fish

I rely on my husband for the main ingredient in this fuss-free dish. He fills our freezer after his summer fishing trip. —Alicia Szeszol, Lindenhurst, Illinois

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Herbed Balsamic Chicken

Our kitchen is tiny and cramped, so we try to grill simple (but tasty) meals outside as often as possible during the summer months. Dried herbs work as well, but during the summer use fresh herbs for the best taste. —Kelly Evans, Denton, Texas

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Basil-Butter Steaks with Roasted Potatoes

A few ingredients and 30 minutes are all you’ll need for this incredibly satisfying meal. A simple basil butter gives these steaks a very special taste. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Apricots with Herbed Goat Cheese

After ending up with bunches of apricots one summer, I created this quick and simple dish. My friends were blown away with its fresh taste and uniqueness. —Wendy Weidner, Ham Lake, Minnesota

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Basil Citrus Cocktail

Fruity, fantastic and lighter in calories! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Chicken Florentine Casserole

Creamy and comforting, this chicken and spinach bake is sure to be a hit at dinnertime. The toasty bread crumb topping delivers a bit of a crunch. —Dori Jackson, Gulf Breeze, Florida

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Mixed Fruit with Lemon-Basil Dressing

A slightly savory dressing really complements the sweet fruit in this recipe. I also use the dressing on salad greens. —Dixie Terry, Goreville, Illinois

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Peach Mango Caprese Salad

Summer in the Midwest offers a bounty of fresh produce. I wanted to come up with a new recipe for the harvested goods, and this bright, flavorful salad is the refreshing end result. —Richard Robinson, Park Forest, Illinois

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Pine Nut and Basil Guacamole

Guacamole is typically a Mexican dish, but that doesn’t mean you can't try to make it with other global flavors. For an Italian-inspired basil guacamole recipe, top it off with toasted pine nuts and fresh herb ribbons. You can also substitute the traditional lime for lemon juice.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Cinnamon-Basil Ice Cream

I started experimenting with herbal ice creams when I was teaching classes at our local college. Not only were the ice creams popular with my students, but my family loved them as well! One of our favorites is made with a variety of basil called cinnamon basil; however, unless you grow the variety yourself, it can be rather difficult to find. I decided to try to re-create the flavor, and this delicious basil ice cream recipe is the result! —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

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Basil Chicken Spirals with Mango Salsa

I love this recipe! It is one of my favorites to wow a crowd. Most of its wow factor comes from all the fresh ingredients. I always pick up fresh herbs, garlic, cucumbers, and hot peppers—as well as honey and onions when I can— at my local farmers market. All those ingredients give this dish a punch of flavor. —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota

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Lime Basil Pie

This sweet lime and basil dessert has a unique taste, plus less calories and fat than the traditional Key lime pie. —Samara Donald, Redmond, Washington.

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Pressure Cooker Creamy Pesto Chicken Stew

I am a fan of thick stews and soups, so this dish is perfect! It's similar to a creamy broccoli soup. I replaced white rice with riced cauliflower for my low-carb-loving family. —Kim Banick, Turner, Oregon

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Honeydew & Prosciutto Salad

For parties, I turn melon and prosciutto into an easy salad with a honey mustard dressing. To add zip, stir in fresh basil and mint. —Julie Merriman, Seattle, Washington

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Grilled Eggplant Panini with Basil Aioli

I love being able to use the bounty of fresh vegetables and herbs from my garden for summer meals. This sandwich is loaded with veggies and has such a satisfying crunch. The melty provolone finishes things off perfectly. —Joseph A. Sciascia, San Mateo, California

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Cilantro

Otherwise known as the coriander leaf, cilantro is bright and refreshing with a zesty lemon flavor. Some find it “soapy,” (there’s a scientific reason why!) and American consumers are pretty well divided on whether they love or hate it. The herb is a staple in Latin American and Asian cooking.

Like most herbs, cilantro can be eaten raw or cooked, and it has the ability to bring the dullest sauces to life with its invigorating flavor profile. See for yourself with this herb-packed recipe for Enchilada Sauce or one of our other favorite cilantro recipes.

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Halibut Soft Tacos

I sometimes serve these halibut tacos wrapped in lettuce instead of tortillas. Either way, the mango salsa tastes amazing with grilled halibut. This warm-weather recipe is quick, colorful and full of nutrients. —Kristin Kossak, Bozeman, Montana

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Tangy Cilantro Lime Confetti Salad

I love standout salads that burst with flavor—the kind that make you feel as if you're splurging without having to eat that piece of chocolate cake. This is one of my very favorites, and everyone I serve it to loves it as well. —Jasey McBurnett, Rock Springs, Wyoming

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Mojito Pulled Pork

This fork-tender pulled pork tastes fabulous on a bun, in a wrap or tortilla. My kids like to eat it spooned over rice in its citrus-flavored juices.—Mindy Oswalt, Winnetka, California

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Quick Cilantro Chicken

If you’re a fan of cilantro, you’ll definitely like this chicken dish. The cilantro adds herbal flavor, melding with the tangy lemon juice and caramelized onions. —Mary Pipkin, Melba, Idaho

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Open-Faced Breakfast Banh Mi

I love banh mi sandwiches because of the delicious pickled veggies. I also love naan, so I combined the two for a fun morning dish! We make these breakfast banh mi on the weekend. —Lori McLain, Denton, Texas

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Chili Verde

This chile verde recipe is one of my family's favorites. We enjoy it any time of year, but it's especially good on a cool and rainy day. —Sherrie Scettrini, Salinas, California

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Peppered Cilantro Rice

This colorful confetti rice is a traditional dish in Puerto Rico. We enjoy it in the summer alongside grilled shrimp kabobs, but it is good with most any entree. -Laura Lunardi of West Chester, Pennsylvania

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Shrimp Tostadas with Lime-Cilantro Sauce

I love shrimp and veggies marinated in citrus juice, also known as ceviche. This recipe starts with cooked shrimp and those same fresh ceviche flavors. Enjoy these tostadas as a make-ahead appetizer or dinner entree. — Leslie Kelley, Dorris, California

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Mexican Street Corn Chowder

Corn is one of my all-time favorite vegetables, so when it's in season, I always make this super easy soup in the slow cooker. —Rashanda Cobbins, Food Editor, Taste of Home

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Southwest Frito Pie

I got a real culture shock when we moved to New Mexico several years ago, but we grew to love the food. We've since moved back to South Carolina, but we still crave New Mexican dishes.This is one of my go-to favorites.—Janet Scoggins, North Augusta, South Carolina

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Spicy Sweet Potato Chips & Cilantro Dip

This irresistible combo could become your new signature snack food. Park the spicy baked chips next to a bowl of the cool, creamy dip and let the gang have at it. What a fantastic twist on traditional chips and dip! —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois

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Cilantro-Lime Chicken

As a working mom and home cook, I strive to have fabulous, flavor-packed dinners that make my family smile. Nothing is more awesome than a slow-cooker recipe that makes it seem as though you've been cooking in the kitchen all day! —Mari Smith, Ashburn, Virginia

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Southwestern Pasta Salad

I created this southwestern pasta salad for a friend who owns a catering business. I was told it was a hit at her events and it's now among the most-requested dishes. —Valonda Seward, Coarsegold, California

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Turkey Enchiladas Verdes

Planning a fiesta night? These authentic-tasting enchiladas in spicy green sauce will please the whole family and you’ll be thankful for turkey leftovers. —Karyn Power, Arlington, Texas

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Thai Salad with Cilantro Lime Dressing

I created this salad to replicate one I tried on a cruise several years ago. It goes over very well at family gatherings and potlucks year-round. We love the spice of the Thai chile, but if your family isn't into spice, feel free to leave it out. It will still be delicious! —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky

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Peppy Peach Salsa

Garden-fresh salsas are one of my favorite condiments. So when I saw a recipe for peach salsa in the newspaper, I couldn't think of anything that sounded better. —Jennifer Abbott, Moraga, California

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Lime and Dill Chimichurri Shrimp

Chimichurri is a very popular condiment in Argentina and Uruguay and is most often used as a dipping sauce or a marinade for meats. My chimichurri shrimp version incorporates dill and lime, which give it a brighter flavor, making it ideal for spring and summer entertaining. —Bonnie Landy, Castro Valley, California

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Spiced Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Lime Butter

This grilled chicken gets a lovely pop of color and flavor from the lime butter—don't skip it! —Diane Halferty, Corpus Christi, Texas

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Fajita-Style Shrimp and Grits

I combined two of my favorite dishes—fajitas and shrimp with cheesy grits—into this spicy one-dish meal. For more heat, use pepper jack cheese instead of a Mexican cheese blend. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois

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Steak with Chipotle-Lime Chimichurri

Steak gets a flavor kick from chimichurri. This piquant, all-purpose herb sauce is so versatile, it complements most any grilled meat, poultry or fish. —Laureen Pittman, Riverside, California

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Creamy Lime Pie with Fresh Berries

I combined the tangy tastes of lime and cilantro with cream cheese for this unusual berry pie that showcases seasonal fruit. The ginger cookies add zip to the crust. —Anneliese Barz, Fort Mill, South Carolina

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Vegetarian Pad Thai

This is a simple pad thai loaded with crisp vegetables and zesty flavor. It’s quick, simple, and fresh-tasting. —Colleen Doucette, Truro, Nova Scotia

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Southwestern Goulash

I had some extra cilantro in the fridge and didn't want to throw it away. Instead, I came up with this delightful and filling family recipe. Everyone just loved it! —Vikki Rebholz, West Chester, Ohio

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Jicama Citrus Salad

Never tried jicama? It is a crunchy Mexican turnip, and I love to use it in this super easy salad. The jicama is ideal alongside the vibrant flavors of the tangerines and shallots. Between the sweet and sour flavors in this salad and its crunchy texture, it's all delish if you ask me. —Crystal Jo Bruns, Iliff, Colorado

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Orange-Glazed Chicken & Chorizo Meatballs

These tasty southwestern meatballs warm up a buffet. I add pomegranate seeds, jalapeno pepper jelly and cilantro to make everything pop with color. —Jeanne Holt, Mendota Heights, Minnesota

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Cilantro Ginger Carrots

Peppery-sweet ginger and cooling cilantro have starring roles in this colorful side of crisp-tender carrots. The veggie goes from pan to plate in a twinkling. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Cilantro-Avocado Tuna Salad Sandwiches

Lime juice and cilantro in tuna salad – who knew? This recipe for avocado tuna salad came to me as a way to have a protein-packed meal with lots of pizzazz. —Heather Waldorf, Black Mountain, North Carolina

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Flank Steak with Cilantro & Blue Cheese Butter

I love the combination of the sweet citrus marinade and the strong tang of the blue cheese butter. And my kids just love flank steak. —Gwen Wedel, Augusta, Michigan

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Cilantro-Lime Chicken Sandwiches

You can use any type of bread or roll for this sandwich. We like the ciabatta, but have used other breads and rolls, whatever I might have handy. You can also pan fry the chicken if you can't get to a grill.—Debbie Speckmeyer, Lakewood, California

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Cilantro-Lime Rice

My family's favorite Mexican restaurant serves a similar rice as a side dish. I threw this together one night when I was making fajitas, and everyone loved it! It's such an easy side dish and pairs well with kabobs on the grill, too. —Robin Baskette, Lexington, Kentucky

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Mexican Egg Casserole

Tomatoes and green chiles give color and zip to this extra-cheesy egg bake. It's a favorite for breakfast or brunch but it can be enjoyed for lunch or supper, too. —Mary Steiner, West Bend, Wisconsin

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Cilantro Salad Dressing

Use this zippy dressing over greens or hot or cold boiled potatoes. You'll love it! —Sara Laber, Shelburne, Vermont

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Watermelon and Spinach Salad

Summer's the perfect time to toss up this watermelon salad. You'd never expect it, but spinach is awesome here. Eat it and feel cool on even the hottest days. —Marjorie Au, Honolulu, Hawaii

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Black Bean & Corn Quinoa

Some vegan quinoa recipes are boring, but this one definitely isn't. My daughter’s college asked parents for the best quinoa recipes to use in the dining halls. This healthy quinoa recipe fits the bill. —Lindsay McSweeney, Winchester, Massachusetts

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Sesame Cilantro Shrimp

On days when I don't feel like spending much time in the kitchen, I reach for shrimp. I can have a hot meal in the table in 10 minutes. —Tami Penunuri, League City, Texas

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Radish, Carrot & Cilantro Salad

Bright carrots and radishes pop in this citrusy salad. My husband likes it with anything from the grill. I like to pile it on tacos. —Christina Baldwin, Covington, Louisiana

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Cilantro Tomato Bruschetta

This is an easy tomato appetizer that all of my family and friends love. The garden-fresh ingredients capture summer and meld together for a delightful hors d’oeuvre recipe that goes well with many different main dishes. —Lisa Kane, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Cilantro Potatoes

Fresh cilantro gives exotic Syrian-style flavor to these easy skillet potatoes. They’re a great complement to Mom’s tangy kabobs. —Weda Mosellie, Phillipsburg, New Jersey

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Shrimp Gazpacho

Here’s a refreshing take on the classic chilled tomato soup. Our twist features shrimp, lime and plenty of avocado. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Sweet Potatoes with Cilantro Black Beans

As a vegan, I'm always looking for impressive dishes to share. Sweet potatoes loaded with beans and a touch of peanut butter are one of my mom’s favorites. —Kayla Capper, Ojai, California

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Cilantro Lime Shrimp

A quick garlicky lime marinade works magic on these juicy shrimp. They come off the grill with huge flavors perfect for your next cookout. —Melissa Rodriguez, Van Nuys, California

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Roasted Carrots with Cilantro-Walnut Pesto

Lightly baked and lightly flavored, this carrot dish uses cilantro, walnuts, olive oil, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese and basil. —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho

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Cilantro Beef Tacos

When I have leftover steak, it’s time to make cilantro tacos. Set out bowls of toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, avocado and salsa. That’s a fiesta. —Patti Rose, Tinley Park, Illinois

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Cauliflower Ceviche

My 87-year-old mom showed me how to make this delicious vegetarian recipe that tastes so much like seafood ceviche. I often serve it with crackers on the side. —Beatriz Barranco, El Paso, Texas

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Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Cilantro Pesto

I first ate this sandwich while vacationing in Sedona, Arizona, and fell in love with it. When I returned home, I developed this one that tastes just like the original. —Carolyn Phenicie, Titusville, Pennsylvania

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Parsley

Parsley is perhaps the most versatile and popular herb in the world. It has a subtle flavor that adds freshness and bite. Although the leaves hold the most flavor, the stems can be equally potent.

Use it to garnish a soup or toss with summer greens for a crisp salad. It also makes easy seasoning for stocks. For a quick parsley-studded brunch dish, try this Cheese and Fresh Herb Quiche. Parsley pairs perfectly with lemon, butter, pasta and eggs. Find out what else you can do with parsley.

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Steak with Chipotle-Lime Chimichurri

Steak gets a flavor kick from chimichurri. This piquant, all-purpose herb sauce is so versatile, it complements most any grilled meat, poultry or fish. —Laureen Pittman, Riverside, California

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Grilled Veggie Sandwiches with Cilantro Pesto

I first ate this sandwich while vacationing in Sedona, Arizona, and fell in love with it. When I returned home, I developed this one that tastes just like the original. —Carolyn Phenicie, Titusville, Pennsylvania

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Blue Cheese-Stuffed Shrimp

Cooked shrimp become something more extraordinary when stuffed with blue cheese. The mild flavor has mass appeal.—Amy Dollimount, Glace Bay, Nova Scotia

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Cheese and Fresh Herb Quiche

With herbs from the garden to use, I created a quiche with basil, parsley and dill along with feta, Swiss, Gruyere and mozzarella. Goat cheese is also yummy. —Sonya Labbe, West Hollywood, California

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Chicken with Citrus Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri is a green sauce from South America that goes with grilled meats. My citrus version brightens up grilled chicken, which gets its juiciness from brining. —Tyffanie Perez, Springville, Utah

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Heirloom Tomato & Zucchini Salad

Tomato wedges give this salad a juicy bite. It's a great use of fresh herbs and veggies from your own garden or the farmers market. —Matthew Hass, Franklin, Wisconsin

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Crunchy Herbed Chicken Breasts

This Italian dish is out of this world. I’m always getting requests to make it for family and friends. —Lucia Johnson, Massena, New York

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Lemon Garlic Mushrooms

I baste whole mushrooms with a lemony sauce to prepare this simple side dish. Using skewers or a basket makes it easy to turn them as they grill to perfection. —Diane Hixon, Niceville, Florida

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Lemony Parsley Baked Cod

The trick to avoid overcooking a good piece of fish is to cook it at a high temperature for a short amount of time. Do that and the fish stays moist and tender. —Sherry Day, Pinckney, Michigan

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Simple Lemon Parsley Potatoes

For a simply delicious side dish, I often prepare these potatoes. I like the fact that there are few ingredients and they take such little time to prepare.—Dorothy Pritchett, Wills Point, Texas

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Grapefruit Gremolata Salmon

If you're looking for a simple fish dish, make this Italian-inspired recipe that combines salmon, broiled grapefruit and a fragrant gremolata. Halibut may be substituted for the salmon. —Gilda Lester, Millsboro, Delaware

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Homemade Ranch Dressing and Dip Mix

Give this versatile mix in a decorative jar with instructions for making dip or dressing. Then tuck it into a gift basket along with a pretty serving bowl and snack crackers or chips. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

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Flavorful Herb Bread

This bread is one of my favorites. It has a wonderful texture and slices beautifully, and the flavor of the herbs really comes through. (Psst—If you don't have a bread machine on hand, learn how to make bread without one!) —Gerri Hamilton, Kingsville, Ontario

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Garlic Lover's Chicken

The garlic and lemon are great together on this breaded chicken. I've served this several times for special-occasion dinners. —Janice Steinmetz, Somers, Connecticut

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Roasted Herb & Lemon Cauliflower

A standout cauliflower side is easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. Crushed red pepper flakes add a touch of heat. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin

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Quinoa Tabbouleh

When my mom and sister developed several food allergies, we had to modify many recipes. I substituted quinoa for couscous in this tabbouleh. Now we make quinoa tabbouleh all the time! —Jennifer Klann, Corbett, Oregon

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Quick Bacon Potato Salad

My family was tired of the same old potato salad at family functions, so I created this potato salad with bacon. Now I'm always asked to bring it to potluck gatherings. —Tami Gallagher, Eagan, Minnesota

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Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce

Once you've tried this tangy, yet delicate lemon chicken piccata, you won't hesitate to make it for company. Seasoned with parmesan and parsley, the chicken cooks up golden brown, then is drizzled with a light lemon sauce. —Susan Pursell, Fountain Valley, California

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Herb-Buttered Baby Carrots

The herb butter can be used for everything from vegetables to roast chicken, turkey, game hens—let your imagination be your guide.—Sandra Corey, Caldwell, Idaho

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Lemon-Parsley Baked Cod

After trying a few baked cod recipes, this was the first fish recipe that got two thumbs up from my picky meat-only eaters. The tangy lemon gives the cod fish some oomph. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho

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Grilled Pineapple Chimichurri Chicken

Classic chimichurri gets a Hawaiian twist thanks to pineapple and macadamia nuts. For a spicier version, substitute red serrano pepper for the bell pepper. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida

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Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad

In our new cookbook “The Kitchen Decoded,” we include tabbouleh salad because it's super simple and filling. Try red quinoa for a slightly earthier flavor. —Logan Levant, Los Angeles, California

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Bow Ties with Walnut-Herb Pesto

I can't resist having pasta at least once a week, but I also didn't want the fat and extra calories that come with. I created this dish, and now I sometimes can even have second helpings! —Diane Nemitz, Ludington, Michigan

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Basil and Parsley Pesto

Toss this herby pesto with pasta, spread it over sandwiches or stir it into an Italian-style soup, such as minestrone. —Lorraine Fina Stevenski, Land O’ Lakes, Florida

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Red Potato Salad with Lemony Vinaigrette

At our house, a red potato salad with red onion, Greek olives and lemony vinaigrette is a zippy improvement on the usual mayo-based salads. —Elizabeth Dehart, West Jordan, Utah

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Pork Meatballs with Chimichurri Sauce

Chimichurri is a tangy herb sauce that comes from South America that's often served with steak. If you've never had it with meatballs, it's time to give it a try! —Amy Chase, Vanderhoof, British Columbia

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Parsley Smashed Potatoes

I love potatoes but hate all the work involved in making mashed potatoes from scratch. I came up with a simple side dish that was made even easier thanks to my slow cooker. Save the leftover broth for soup the next day! —Katie Hagy, Blacksburg, South Carolina

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Shrimp Pasta Salad

I adore shrimp, so discovering it in this pasta salad recipe was a real treat for me. The lemon-dill sauce is light and bright. It's one of our favorite cold pasta salad recipes! —Traci Wynne, Denver, Pennsylvania

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Garlic-Herb Mini Quiches

Looking for a wonderful way to impress guests? You’ve got it—and you need only five ingredients to make these tasty apps! —Josephine Piro, Easton, Pennsylvania

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Garlic Garbanzo Bean Spread

My friends and family always ask me to make it. I guarantee you’ll be asked for the recipe. —Lisa Moore, North Syracuse, New York

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Cherry Tomato Salad

This recipe evolved from a need to use the bumper crops of delicious cherry tomatoes we grow. It's one of my favorite cherry tomato recipes, especially at cookouts. —Sally Sibley, St. Augustine, Florida

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Potato-Bean Salad with Herb Dressing

My veggie garden inspired this creamy combo of beans, potatoes and fresh herbs. I toss them with a ranch-style dressing sparked up with Creole mustard. —Chris Cummer, Bayonne, New Jersey

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Spicy Kale and Herb Porchetta

Serve this classic Italian specialty as a main entree or with crusty artisan bread as a sandwich. Use the liquid from the slow cooker with your favorite seasonings to make a sauce or gravy. —Sandi Sheppard, Norman, Oklahoma

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Curry & Parmesan Tuna Salad

I absolutely LOVE tuna salad. With this recipe, I brought together all of my favorite things to make the best tuna salad sandwich ever! —Jenny Dubinsky, Inwood, West Virginia

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Herbed Salmon Fillet

On a busy day I turn to this sensational salmon recipe for dinner. It's fast, healthy, and tastes great. —Karen Ensign, Providence, Utah

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Lemon Cranberry Quinoa Salad

As the family cook, I appreciate how easy this is to throw together on a busy weeknight. Plus, this salad never gets boring. One of my favorite variations is to substitute diced fresh mango for the cranberries, cilantro for the parsley, and lime for the lemon juice and zest. —Mary Shenk, DeKalb, Illinois

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Herbed Beer Can Chicken

Our Fourth of July tradition is to grill a chicken standing up on a can of beer. It might look slightly silly when you're making it, but it's such a fun conversation piece—and you can't beat the tender taste. —Karen Barros, Bristol, Rhode Island

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Parsley Butter

Making a flavored butter is very simple and will add a lot of flavor to your food. It will impress your guests and they will be asking for the recipe.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Greendale, Wisconsin

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Chimichurri Monkey Bread

The herby goodness of my favorite sauce shines in this nostalgic bread recipe that comes together quickly thanks to refrigerated biscuits. Serve warm as an appetizer with marinara for dipping, or as a side to an Italian entree. —Eden Dranger, Los Angeles

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Grilled Steaks with Cilantro Sauce

Fresh herbs made into a sauce help make these steaks the main star of our favorite summer grilling menu. —Lynne Keast, Monte Sereno, California

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Mint

This cool, bright herb has a similar flavor profile to basil. Though it’s most commonly associated with desserts, mint is a key player in savory dishes, such as this flavor-boosted shrimp and feta skillet.

For a more traditional approach, use mint to garnish a fresh fruit arrangement or toss it into fresh lemonade. For a fast and refreshing summer side, try this Minty Watermelon and Cucumber Salad. Get all of our best fresh mint recipes to help you use up that bumper crop.