1. Create a Simple and Flavourful Herb Butter

Herb butter is a great way to add instant flavour to a variety of dishes, from grilled meats and vegetables to warm bread and pasta. The best part is that you can customise it with the dried herbs you already have at home.

How to Make Herb Butter:

• Take 100g of softened butter and place it in a bowl.
• Add 1 teaspoon of your chosen dried herbs (parsley, thyme, oregano, or basil work well).
• Mix in a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavour.
• Stir everything together until well combined.
• Wrap the butter in cling film, roll into a log, and refrigerate until firm.

Ways to Use Herb Butter:

• Spread it over warm toast or fresh bread.
• Melt it over grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Stir it into freshly cooked pasta for an instant herby sauce.
• Use it to saute vegetables for extra flavour.

Tip: If you have leftover butter, freeze it in small portions and use it whenever you need a quick flavour boost.

2. Upgrade Your Soups and Stews with Dried Herbs

Soups and stews are ideal for adding dried herbs, as they allow the flavours to infuse over time. Even the simplest of broths can be turned into something special with the right herbs.

Best Herbs for Soups and Stews:

• Oregano: Perfect for tomato-based soups like minestrone.
• Thyme: Adds depth to chicken or vegetable broths.
• Rosemary: A great addition to hearty stews and slow-cooked meats.
• Basil: Enhances the flavour of creamy soups like tomato or mushroom.

How to Use Dried Herbs in Soups and Stews:

• For the best flavour, add dried herbs early in the cooking process so they have time to release their oils.
• If using delicate herbs like basil, stir them in towards the end to maintain their fresh taste.
• Combine different herbs to create unique flavour combinations (e.g., thyme and rosemary for a rich, earthy taste).

Tip: If your soup or stew is missing something, try adding a pinch of dried herbs instead of extra salt for a healthier flavour boost.

3. Make a Quick and Tasty Herb Seasoning Blend

Store-bought seasoning blends can be expensive, but you can easily make your own at home using dried herbs from your cupboard. A homemade herb seasoning blend is perfect for adding flavour to roasted meats, vegetables, and even snacks like popcorn.

Basic Herb Seasoning Blend Recipe:

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

How to Use Your Homemade Seasoning Blend:

• Sprinkle over roasted potatoes or vegetables before baking.
• Rub onto chicken, beef, or fish for an easy marinade.
• Mix into yoghurt or mayonnaise to create a quick dipping sauce.
• Add a pinch to scrambled eggs or omelettes for extra flavour.

Tip: Store your herb seasoning blend in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place for future use.

4. Use Herbs to Transform Simple Side Dishes

Side dishes don’t have to be boring. With just a sprinkle of dried herbs, you can turn plain rice, pasta, or potatoes into a flavour-packed addition to your meal.

Ways to Use Herbs in Side Dishes:

• Garlic and Herb Rice: Stir a teaspoon of dried parsley and garlic powder into cooked rice for an instant upgrade.
• Herb Butter Pasta: Toss cooked pasta with herb butter and grated cheese for a simple yet tasty dish.
• Oregano-Roasted Potatoes: Coat diced potatoes in olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper before roasting.
• Seasoned Bread Crumbs: Mix dried basil, oregano, and thyme into breadcrumbs for a flavourful coating on chicken or fish.

Tip: If you have stale bread, blend it with dried herbs to make homemade flavoured breadcrumbs.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Herb butter is an easy way to add flavour to meats, bread, and vegetables.
• Dried herbs enhance soups and stews by deepening their flavour.
• Homemade seasoning blends are a budget-friendly way to spice up meals.
• Adding herbs to simple side dishes can make them more exciting and flavourful.

Making the most of the herbs in your cupboard is a simple and cost-effective way to enhance everyday meals. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a loved one, these ideas will help you add variety and flavour without extra expense. For more budget-friendly cooking tips, visit CarersCardUK.