Wednesday, May 27, 2009

Herbs, Glorious Herbs

Last summer when I grew some basil on my back porch, it astounded me. I loved being able to head out my back door and pick some fresh leaves whenever a recipe called for them. We made some killer pesto, a few memorable pasta dishes, and saved some cashola. One can buy herbs in the grocery store for around $2 to $4 for a bunch, or the same amount of hard earned dough can be spent on an entire plant. Not a tough call.

As Spring has finally graced us with its presence, I've opted to go beyond my love of basil and adopt some more herbs. My new babies include thyme, mint, chives, rosemary, parsley, cilantro, and basil.

Keep growing strong, my dears. I'm looking forward to a carefree summer of snatching you up whenever I wish. If anyone has some to-die-for summer recipes involving those mentioned above, I'm all ears, so speak up! I just want to cook, sew, and enjoy my deck all summer. Why oh why do I have a desk job?

19 comments:

Marta said...

you're inspiring me to grow some herbs of my own--your pots look great, Sarah!

Slack said...

I make a lemon thyme vinaigrette for grilled chicken and shrimp. Put a little on the meats and save the rest to pour over when done. Super good and fresh.

I do lots of pesto with my basil too. I've started putting it in ice cube trays, freezing it, then using a cube or two (or 4 or 5) whenever I need them. It thaws quickly.

Anonymous said...

Oh man, those pictures are making me HUNGRY!

Sara said...

Those herbs look great and I agree, I would rather have the plant right out my back door!

I'm not a cook so I don't have any recipes for you! Sorry!

Carolyn said...

Your herbs look so great and healthy! I've recently grown basil too and am amazed at how easy it grows. Why is it so expensive then?

Malissa said...

Holy gorgeousness.

Colleen MacDonald said...

Oh the deliciousness! I love to whip up a yummy crust free quiche using fresh picked thyme and marjarom from my yard. I'll see if I can dig up a recipe if you need it!

Chris said...

Your herbs look great! I don't really cook much, but lemon drop martini's with fresh lemons and mint are awesome!

Angie said...

Oh, I love fresh basil too! I hope to plant my herb garden this weekend :-)

amylouwhosews said...

yes you are a girl after my own heart! Basil is the main reason I even garden! I also love fresh tarragon - AMAZING! I have a great recipe for Pasta Caprese that uses lemons and fresh basil and fresh mozzarella. DELISH! Remind me and I'll email it to you!

VeggieAmanda said...

Your herbs look beautiful! Once we get settled into the new house, we are going to plant an herb garden. I might need tips from you!

Anonymous said...

I think it's time for me to grow some herbs. Did you start these from seeds or did you buy plants? Thanks for sharing...Kathy

Sarah said...

I bought them as plants, but they've grown like crazy. I got them from Home Depot and from a grocery store, usually around $3...totally worth it!

Alli said...

I need to take basil-growing lessons from you...you should see my awful plant...

Ann-Marie said...

Oh, how I wish I had a good spot for herbs, especially in individual pots. Some day. Enjoy having them at your disposal!

Jessica said...

I planted lettuce, tomatoes and strawberries, but I haven't gotten my herbs in yet. Last year my basil went crazy...it was perfect to have it at arms reach!

Jena said...

I wish you lots of luck! My potted herbs didn't do very well last year, and I kept killing my basil. All three times. :(

Yours already looks better than mine ever did.

Kelly said...

They look so lovely! :) My herb pots are finally starting to grow this year, too and I totally hear you about the desk job. I don't even have a window to stare out of longingly. Sigh.

a.o. said...

Fresh herbs: nothing better!