How to Prune Herbs (And Why You Definitely Should)
Updated: Dec. 15, 2020
Learn how to prune herbs to keep your plants thriving!
Once you’ve planted herbs in the garden or containers, you may be tempted to walk away and let them grow unchecked. However, knowing when and how to prune herbs is so important. It helps your plants stay vigorous and productive, and keeps them growing longer than if left to fend for themselves.
Editor’s Note: For the best flavor from your fresh herbs, plan to harvest them in the morning before it gets hot and plants are stressed for water. Herbs also have more vibrant, fresher flavors when harvested from younger stems—another good reason to prune herbs often!
How to Prune Basil
Basil plants will grow quickly in the garden, getting leggy with oversized leaves. Pruning every couple of weeks will keep the plant tidy, prevent flowering and encourage growth of new leaves. Prune basil by snipping the stems about 3 to 4″ down from the tops, just above a leaf node. This is how to store fresh basil.
Easy Ways to Use Fresh Basil
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Lime Basil Pie
This sweet tooth satisfying dessert has a unique taste, plus less calories and fat than the traditional key lime pie.—Samara Donald, Redmond, Washington.
Basil & Heirloom Tomato Toss
I came up with this garden-fresh salad to showcase the heirloom tomatoes and peppers we raised for our stall at the farmers market. Try out other types of basil like lemon, lime, licorice and cinnamon. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
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
Pesto
Homemade pesto always makes a thoughtful hostess gift. Mix things up with the cilantro variation. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Basil Vegetable Strata
I've been cooking this strata for years, and my family just can't get enough! The fresh basil gives this healthy brunch dish an added flavor boost. —Jean L. Ecos, Hartland, Wisconsin.
Basil Pork Chops
Just a few ingredients give a tender pork loin chop all the glazed goodness it needs. Serve with your favorite roasted veggies and you’ve got a meal bursting with flavor. —Lisa Gilliland, Fort Collins, Colorado
Crispy Goat Cheese Appetizers
Want an amazing party starter? Coat slices of goat cheese with seasoned bread crumbs, fry them until golden-brown and top them off with tomato, basil, vinegar and pine nuts. —Julia TenHoeve, Richmond, Virginia
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
Strawberry-Basil Cocktail
This cocktail of sun-ripened strawberries and tender basil is so refreshing without being overly sweet. It’s our favorite. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Columbia, South Carolina
Heirloom Tomato Tart
Here's a delicious way to use the tomato bounty from your garden or the great buys from the local farmers' market. If you don't have heirloom tomatoes, try regular tomatoes with grape or plum tomatoes. —Kathryn Conrad, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Basil-Lemon Crab Linguine
I always add herbs to pasta to really punch up the flavor. This linguine looks and tastes like it's from a five-star restaurant. We love it. —Tonya Burkhard, Palm Coast, Florida
Garlic Basil Butter
Instead of serving plain butter alongside an assortment of fresh breads, prepare this herb-laden whipped butter. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
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 tastes just like summer. —Laura Lunardi, West Chester, Pennsylvania
Strawberry Basil Jam
I make this recipe with fresh-picked strawberries and basil grown in my own herb garden. This unique sweet and savory jam makes a perfect gift—just add a bright ribbon around the top with a gift tag! The deep red jam, laced with flecks of green basil, is so beautiful. —Julie O'Neil, Two Harbors, Minnesota
Honey-Melon Salad with Basil
Put the taste of summer in your salad! Loaded with juicy cantaloupe and honeydew, and glazed with a sweet honey dressing, this dish will be gone in minutes. Watermelon is a tasty addition, too. —Khurshid Shaik, Omaha, Nebraska
Viva Panzanella
Add some white beans, and suddenly the traditional Italian bread and tomato salad is filling enough to stand on its own. It’s a great way to use fresh tomatoes from the garden or farmers market. —Patricia Levenson, Santa Ana, California
Lemon-Basil Grilled Shrimp & Couscous
The basil and lemon in this dish complement each other so nicely. Using fresh ingredients really makes a big difference. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Basil Dill Coleslaw
I was introduced to basil when I married into an Italian family. I loved the aromatic fragrance and flavor of the herb. I think it adds a unique flavor to this tasty slaw that’s a cool side to grilled meats. —June Cappetto, Seattle, Washington
Roasted Tomato Soup with Fresh Basil
Roasting really brings out the flavor of the tomatoes in this wonderful soup. It has a slightly chunky texture that shows it's fresh and homemade. —Marie Forte, Raritan, New Jersey
Basil and Parsley Pesto
Toss this herby pesto with pasta, spread it over sandwiches or stir it into an Italian-style soup, like minestrone. —Lorraine Fina Stevenski, Land O’ Lakes, Florida
Tomato-Basil Steak
We grow the basil and bell peppers I use in this dish. It's easy to prepare, yet so rich and delicious. —Sheryl Little, Sherwood, Arkansas
Peach-Basil Cooler
Mix peaches and basil with club soda for a cool and refreshing mocktail! —Dana Hinck, Pensacola, Florida
Caprese Chicken
I love a Caprese salad of tomatoes, basil and cheese, so why not try a chicken caprese? You can grill this dish, but my family agrees it’s juicier straight from the oven. —Dana Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Grilled Sausage-Basil Pizzas
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
Basil Corn & Tomato Bake
I think this is the ultimate dish to make when sweet Jersey corn is in season. Combined with tomatoes, zucchini and basil, it makes for a spectacular side for brunch, lunch or dinner. —Erin Chilcoat, Central Islip, New York
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
Grilled Tilapia Piccata
We aren’t big fish eaters, but a friend made this for us, and we couldn’t believe how wonderful it was! Now we eat it regularly. I love making it for guests because it’s simple, looks lovely and tastes restaurant-worthy. —Beth Cooper, Columbus, Ohio
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. —Vicki Anderson, Farmington, Minnesota
Berry-Basil Limeade Jam
My husband and I have fun picking fruit. We ended up with too many strawberries, so it was time to make jam, inspired by a mojito recipe. —Erica Ingram, Lakewood, Ohio
Lemon-Basil Mojito Mocktails
In this twist on the classic summer beverage, lemon and basil take the place of mint. For a grown-up version, just add your favorite rum or vodka. —Cheryl Perry, Hertford, North Carolina
Bruschetta Chicken
We enjoy serving this tasty chicken bruschetta to both family and to company. It just might become your new favorite way to use up summer tomatoes and basil. —Carolin Cattoi-Demkiw, Lethbridge, Alberta
Basil Grilled Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob is a comforting and cherished Midwest dish. It's amazing when grilled, and my recipe adds a few unexpected ingredients to make it taste even more like summertime. —Caitlin Dawson, Monroe, Ohio
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
Lemon Basil Salmon
It was my husband, Steve, who came up with this easy, foil-packet recipe for flaky, fork-tender Lemon Basil Salmon. We eat a lot of salmon and Steve likes trying out different herbs and spices on our food. This recipe's a winner! —Marianne Bauman, Modesto, California
Basil Burgers with Sun-Dried Tomato Mayonnaise
I often end up with a bumper crop of basil—here's a favorite way to use some of it. These burgers feature great Italian flavor. The gooey, cheesy centers and scrumptious topping are irresistible. —Virginia Kochis, Springfield, Virginia
Mediterranean Chicken in Creamy Herb Sauce
Just because it's a weeknight does not mean that you can't have a delightful dinner. The aroma of the fresh herbs simmering in a creamy sauce combined with the chicken thighs make this easy entree is perfect supper for any night of the week. —Judy Armstrong, Prairieville, Louisiana
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
Lemon-Basil Chicken Rotini
My husband and sons like to have meat with their meals, but I prefer more veggies. This combo with rotini pasta is colorful and healthy, and it keeps everyone happy. —Anna-Marie Williams, League City, TexasHow to Prune Parsley
Regularly cutting your parsley plants not only stimulates new growth, but also keeps the plant from getting overgrown and going to seed. To prune parsley, go for the stems growing around the outside of the plant—new stems come up through the center. Trim outer stems close to the ground. Prune throughout the season when you see the plant getting gangly, to remove flowers or when you need parsley for a recipe.
Don’t miss our guide to cooking with fresh herbs!
Ways to Use a Bunch of 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Quinoa Tabbouleh
When my mom and sister developed several food allergies, we had to modify many recipes. I substituted quinoa for couscous in this tabouleh. Now we make it all the time! —Jennifer Klann, Corbett, Oregon
Quick Bacon Potato Salad
My family was tired of the same old potato salad at family functions, so I created this with the ingredients I had on hand. Now I'm always asked to bring it to potluck gatherings. —Tami Gallagher, Eagan, Minnesota
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
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
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
Grilled Pineapple Chimichurri Chicken
I put a Hawaiian twist to classic chimichurri thanks to pineapple and macadamia nuts. For a spicier version, substitute red serrano pepper for the bell pepper. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
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
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, MichiganBasil and Parsley Pesto
Toss this herby pesto with pasta, spread it over sandwiches or stir it into an Italian-style soup, like minestrone. —Lorraine Fina Stevenski, Land O’ Lakes, Florida
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
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
Parsley Smashed Potatoes
I love potatoes but can't stand the work involved in making mashed potatoes from scratch. I came up with this simple side dish that was made even easier thanks to my slow cooker. The best part is I can use the leftover broth for soup the next day! —Katie Hagy, Blacksburg, South Carolina
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. —Traci Wynne, Denver, Pennsylvania
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 cranberries, cilantro for parsley, and lime for the lemon juice and zest. —Mary Shenk, Dekalb, Illinois
Herbed Beer Can Chicken
Our July Fourth tradition is to grill chickens that stand up on a can of beer. It’s a fun conversation piece. — Karen Barros, Bristol, Rhode Island
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
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
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, CaliforniaHow to Prune Rosemary
Regular pruning of rosemary plants will keep the stems from getting thick and woody. If your rosemary has survived the winter, prune back older stems in the spring. On young rosemary plants, snip the top 2 to 3″ of the stems weekly or even more often if the plant is growing vigorously. Prune through the spring and summer.
Ways to Use Fresh Rosemary
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Rosemary Flatbreads
My family loves this as a pizza crust. But with a touch of olive oil and fresh herbs it makes a lovely flatbread appetizer. —Sue Brown, West Bend, Wisconsin
Rosemary Sweet Potato Fries
A local restaurant got me hooked on sweet potato fries. I started making them at home with different seasonings to match the taste. I'm thrilled with the results! —Jackie Gregston, Hallsville, Texas
Chicken with Red Wine Cream Sauce
My creamy chicken tastes like a five-star restaurant dish but takes only minutes and few ingredients to make. Use fresh rosemary. Trust me. —Sarah Campbell, Terre Haute, IN
Lemon-Rosemary Layer Cake
Tall and impressive, this unique dessert is a treat for the senses with flecks of lemon zest and fresh rosemary. Just wait till you taste it! —Mary Fraser, Surprise, Arizona
Strawberry-Rosemary Yogurt Pops
We planted strawberries a few years ago and these tangy-sweet frozen yogurt pops are my very favorite treats to make with them! The options are endless. Try using other yogurt flavors like lemon, raspberry or blueberry. You may also substitute your favorite herb for the rosemary—or simply omit it. —Carmell Childs, Ferron, Utah
Beer-Braised Pulled Ham
To jazz up ham, I slow-cooked it with a beer sauce. Buns loaded with ham, pickles and mustard are irresistible. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Rosemary Butternut Squash Lasagna
I came up with this recipe when our garden was brimming with butternut squash. This is now our favorite way to use it. —Christine Wood, Tipton, Iowa
Sausage Skillet with Pasta & Herbs
The fresh herbs really pop in this cinch of a weekday meal. If you want a break from pasta, serve the saucy sausages on polenta instead. It would make a fantastic hoagie filling, too. —Victoria Davis, Wilder, Vermont
Bistro Herb-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin
A mouthwatering rub featuring fresh tarragon, thyme and rosemary releases rich, bold flavor as this pork entree sizzles. Served with a delectable thickened sauce, it’s crazy good! —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami
Rosemary-Parmesan Popcorn
Fresh herbs and real cheese make this popcorn a homemade favorite that will make you forget about store-bought seasoning mixes. —Dan Kelmenson, West Bloomfield, Michigan
Garlic Chicken with Herbs
Pan-roasting garlic cloves turns them into rich, creamy deliciousness. This chicken is fantastic with crusty Italian bread or mashed potatoes on the side. —Kathy Fleming, Lisle, Illinois
Herb Roasted Root Vegetables
Here's a simple-to-fix side that is perfect for a festive dinner. It looks beautiful with any entree. Roasting brings out the vegetables' natural sweetness. —Deirdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri
Citrus & Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
This recipe will make you love turkey again. Brining with lemon, rosemary and orange juice makes it so moist and flavorful. It's the star attraction at our table. —Fay Moreland, Wichita Falls, Texas
Herbed Apple-Cranberry Bread Dressing
Not all stuffings are created equal. My version of the classic side dish features apples for a sweet crunch and cranberries for a little tartness. —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho
Apple Orchard Pork Roast
Onions and apples meld perfectly to make a sweet and savory treatment for pork roast. Serve it with the accompanying sour cream sauce. —Vikki Lee, Gold River, California
Rosemary-Thyme Lamb Chops
My father loves lamb, so I make this dish whenever he visits. It's the perfect main course for holidays or get-togethers. —Kristina Mitchell, Clearwater, Florida.
Cranberry, Brie & Turkey Pizza
While traveling in New Zealand, my husband and I discovered turkey pizza. We came up with our own version for a creative way to use leftovers. —Kristin Stone, Little Elm, TexasRoasted 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
Honey-Roasted Chicken & Root Vegetables
When my whole family comes over for dinner, I make a big platter of roast chicken with sweet potatoes, carrots and fennel. My dad leads the fan club. —Kelly Ferguson, Conshohocken, Pennsylvania
Flavorful Mashed Potatoes
Earthy herbs bring a full chorus of flavor to creamy red potatoes, making this side dish anything but ordinary. Save it for special occasions or serve as a dressy accompaniment to a weeknight meal. —Mary Relyea, Canastota, New York
Skillet Beef and Potatoes
Sirloin strips with red potatoes and fresh rosemary are seriously amazing and ready in a flash. The key is precooking potatoes in the microwave to speed the process. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Bruschetta with Prosciutto
A crowd-pleaser any time of year, this savory-tasting recipe is perfect for get-togethers. —Debbie Manno, Fort Mill, South Carolina
Champagne Cocktail
This amber champagne cocktail is a bubbly twist on the traditional old-fashioned. Try it with extra dry champagne. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Winter Squash, Sausage & Feta Bake
This time of year, I can't resist butternut squash, with its bright color and fall flavor. It helps make this casserole a guaranteed hit at potlucks. —Craig Simpson, Savannah, Georgia
Lemon & Rosemary Shortbread Cookies
Lemon and rosemary make these luscious treats a sweet surprise for a few friends. —Malorie Harris, Wildomar, California
Lamb Stew
My grandmother used to make this stew as a special Sunday meal. It's an unforgettable treat from Ireland. —Vickie Desourdy, Washington, North Carolina
Kalamata Cheesecake Appetizer
It's believed the Greeks served cheesecake at the first Olympics, so why not rewrite history with a Greek cheesecake appetizer? Ingredients in this version "tame" the kalamata olives, so even if you shy away from kalamatas, you'll be glad you tried this one. For a milder flavor, use the more common black or green olives. —Theresa Kreyche, Tustin, California
Grandma's Rosemary Dinner Rolls
My grandma (I called her Baba) made these in her coal oven. How she regulated the temperature is beyond me! She always made extra rolls for the neighbors to bake in their own ovens. At lunchtime, my mom and aunts delivered the formed rolls. —Charlotte Hendershot, Hudson, Pennsylvania
Rosemary Jelly
This deliciously different green jelly gets its flavor from an unusual source: savory rosemary. The herb adds a refreshing zip to the otherwise sweet spread. —Margaret Dumire, Carroll, Ohio
Herb Garden Vegetables
I have a garden and wanted to highlight all the vegetables and herbs I grow. This medley was the perfect way to do just that. —Julie Stella, Champlin, Minnesota
Herbed Goat Cheese Baguette Slices
This fun appetizer is guaranteed to wow guests! It takes just moments to whip up the herb-infused goat cheese spread. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Greendale, Wisconsin
Rosemary Beet Phyllo Bites
The deep red of the beets will definitely bring a splash of festive color to any appetizer buffet. The mild rosemary flavor accents the peppery bite of the arugula and the sweet-sour flavor of the pickled beets. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Portobello Bruschetta with Rosemary Aioli
Caramelizing onions, broiling peppers and whipping up a homemade aioli with fresh herbs adds dimensions of flavor you won't find in a store-bough bruschetta. —Stephanie Kalina-Metzger, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
Mushroom-Gruyere Scalloped Potatoes
When I started cooking, the only mushrooms I used were the button variety. Now I love experimenting with different types. This recipe is so filling, it can be served as a meatless entree. —Nadine Mesch, Mount Healthy, Ohio
Brussels Sprouts in Rosemary Cream Sauce
Brussels sprouts in a rosemary-infused cream sauce have the power to bring friends together – but watch out for fights over who gets the last of the sauce. —Liz Koschoreck, Berea, Kentucky
Rosemary Lemonade
A friend suggested I add a sprig of rosemary to lemonade. The herb makes the drink taste fresh and light, and it's a pretty garnish. —Dixie Graham, Rancho Cucamonga, California
Rosemary-Lemon Sea Salt
Making flavored sea salt is so easy. Mix in grated lemon peel and minced rosemary for a delicious way to enhance chicken, fish and salads. —Shelley Holman, Scottsdale, Arizona
White Bean Soup with Rosemary & Parmesan
This hearty soup is a nice change of pace from boring old chicken noodle. Fresh veggies and rosemary lend fantastic flavor the whole family will love. —Jerry Gulley, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Roast Rack of Lamb with Herb Sauce
The sauce uses eight of my favorite herbs, but making it is a cinch. The aroma of the lamb while it roasts is amazing. —Mya Zeronis, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
French Onion Pizza au Gratin
I love a hot bowl of French onion soup and am also a fan of pizza after busy workdays. This recipe combines classic onion soup ingredients with everyday pizza staples. —Bonnie Long, Lakewood, OhioHow to Prune Thyme
Thyme is another woody type of herb and frequent trimming will promote new growth. You can pinch leaves from thyme plants as you need them, or trim the top couple of inches of the stems. Cut stems just above a leaf node (where the leaves grow from the stems). Flowers can be removed so that more leaves will grow; however, thyme plants will still grow even after flowering.
Ways to Use Your Pruned Thyme
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Lemon & Thyme Roasted Chicken
I love lemon and thyme together so I decided to roast a chicken with that combo. The seasoning is simple, and the meat comes out moist and tender. —Pam Nelson, Beaverton, Oregon
Thymed Zucchini Saute
Simple and flavorful, this recipe is a tasty and healthy way to use up all those zucchini that are taking over your garden. It's ready in hardly any time! —Bobby Taylor, Ulster Park, New York
Thyme-Baked Apple Slices
My children love this healthy apple side dish along with chicken fingers for lunch. It's also a wonderful alternative to potatoes when serving meat. My family even asks for seconds!—Constance Henry, Hibbing, Minnesota
Orange-Glazed Pork Loin
This is one of the best pork recipes I've ever tried. My family looks forward to this roast for dinner, and guests always want the recipe. The flavorful rub and a glaze sparked with orange juice are also outstanding on pork chops. —Lynnette Miete, Alna, Maine
Herb & Romano Cheese Wreath
After the wreath is baked and cooled, it can be wrapped in foil, placed in an airtight plastic bag and frozen until you are ready to use it or give it away. Add some whipped butter on the side and it’s the perfect gift. —Linda Padia, Wauna, Washington
Chicken & Garlic with Fresh Herbs
The key to this savory chicken is the combination of garlic and fresh rosemary and thyme. I like to serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty Italian bread. —Jan Valdez, Lombard, Illinois
Heirloom Tomato Pie
My green-thumb neighbors like to share produce with me. I return the delicious favor by baking tomato pies for all. —Angela Benedict, Dunbar, West Virginia
Asparagus 'n' Shrimp with Angel Hair
We’ve all heard that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, so when I plan a romantic dinner, this shrimp asparagus pasta with angel hair is one dish I like to serve. It’s easy on the budget and turns out perfectly for two. —Shari Neff, Takoma Park, MarylandFlavorful Mashed Potatoes
Earthy herbs bring a full chorus of flavor to creamy red potatoes, making this side dish anything but ordinary. Save it for special occasions or serve as a dressy accompaniment to a weeknight meal. —Mary Relyea, Canastota, New York
Orange-Thyme Chicken in Garlic Sauce
The roasted garlic sauce in this recipe makes ordinary chicken breasts amazing. To switch things up, replace the orange juice and zest with lime. —Charlene Chambers, Ormond Beach, Florida
The Ultimate Chicken Noodle Soup
My first Wisconsin winter was so cold, all I wanted to eat was homemade chicken noodle soup. Of all the chicken noodle soup recipes out there, this type of soup is my favorite and is in heavy rotation from November to April. It has many incredibly devoted fans.—Gina Nistico, Denver, Colorado
Roasted Potatoes with Garlic Butter
A platter of golden and orange potatoes can serve double duty as your dinner centerpiece. —Elizabeth Kelley, Chicago, Illinois
Slow-Cooker Short Ribs
These slow-cooker short ribs are an easy alternative to traditionally braised short ribs—you don't need to pay any attention to them once you get them in the slow cooker. (That makes it my favorite beef short ribs recipe!) —Rebekah Beyer, Sabetha, Kansas
Grilled Lemon & Thyme Lemonade
We use our grill for most summer dinners, so we thought, "why not grill the lemonade?" The flavor is surprisingly smooth, with just the right amount of honey and herbs. We call it Thyme for Lemonade. —Susan Jordan, Denver, Colorado
Blushing Penne Pasta
I reworked this recipe from an original that called for vodka and heavy whipping cream. My friends and family had a hard time believing a sauce this rich, flavorful and creamy could be light. —Margaret Wilson, Hemet, California
Thyme-Roasted Carrots
Cutting the carrots lengthwise makes this dish look extra pretty. For a little more elegance and color, garnish with sprigs of fresh thyme or parsley. —Deirdre Cox, Kansas City, MissouriRosemary-Thyme Lamb Chops
My father loves lamb, so I make this dish whenever he visits. It's the perfect main course for holidays or get-togethers. —Kristina Mitchell, Clearwater, Florida.
Maple-Thyme Chicken Thighs
We eat a lot of chicken at our house, and figuring out different ways to serve it gets challenging. My family went nuts for the cozy maple flavors in this recipe, so now I share it at potlucks, too. —Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario
Thyme-Sea Salt Crackers
These homemade crackers are decidedly light and crispy. An addictive snack on their own, they also pair well with a sharp white cheddar. —Jessica Wirth, Charlotte, North Carolina
Strawberry-Thyme Jam
I created this recipe using two ingredients that I love: strawberry and thyme. This recipe is ideal slathered on homemade farm biscuits.—Sharon Demers, Dolores, Colorado
Thyme & Basil Roast Pork
Dad’s favorite roast pork was rubbed with cinnamon, thyme, basil and lemon. He loved thick slices and wanted only a salad to finish off the meal. —Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario
Honey-Thyme Butternut Squash
This golden, honey-sweetened squash is just as hearty and comforting as your favorite potato dish. With its bright color, it makes an attractive side for special autumn meals. —Bianca Noiseux, Bristol, Connecticut
Turkey Thyme Risotto
This satisfying risotto is a wonderful way to reinvent leftover turkey. I use Romano cheese, garlic and plenty of fresh mushrooms to create it. —Sunny McDaniel, Cary, North Carolina
Spring-Thyme Chicken Stew
During a long winter (and spring), my husband and I were in need of something warm, comforting and bright. This chicken was the perfect thing. It fills the house with the smell of home when Mom would make chicken soup, with a little something extra. —Amy Chase, Vanderhoof, British Columbia
Lemon Thyme Green Tea
Fresh sprigs of lemon thyme make this citrusy tea so refreshing—it’s like sipping summer from a cup. My family and I enjoy it so much that it’s a staple on our southern front porch.—Melissa Pelkey Hass, Waleska, Georgia
Potato Kielbasa Skillet
No need to hunt through kielbasa and potato recipes, this smoky take steals the show as a hearty home-style, all-in-one meal. It's especially perfect on those cold late fall and early winter nights. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Cherry Tomato Mozzarella Saute
This side dish is full of flavor and so quick to put together. The cherry tomatoes and mozzarella are perfect alongside almost any main dish you can think of. —Summer Jones, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Shrimp Tortellini Pasta Toss
No matter how you toss 'em up, shrimp and thyme play nicely with any spring-fresh vegetable. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Chicken Biscuit Potpie
This hearty meal in one takes just 10 minutes to assemble before popping it in the oven. Plus, a chicken potpie with biscuits combines two of my family's favorite dishes, making this recipe a slam dunk. —Dorothy Smith, El Dorado, Arkansas
West African Chicken Stew
I really love African flavors, but you don't really encounter them much in the U.S. Here the combination of native African ingredients, all of which can be found in the States, transports you to a new culinary place. —Michael Cohen, Los Angeles, CaliforniaHow to Prune Mint
You will be much happier with your mint if you prune it frequently throughout the season. Left unchecked, established mint plants will overrun your garden and even the lawn! Begin pruning and harvesting mint in spring as soon as leaves appear on the stems. Trim mint stems back by as much as half, and this can be done every few weeks. Pruning this way works with all varieties of mint.
Ideas for Using All Your Fresh Mint
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Mojito Slush
Whether you're splashing poolside or watching the kids inside, this slushy beverage has just the right balance of minty crispness and limey tartness that's sure to tingle your taste buds. —Jessica Ring, Chicago, Illinois
Minty Watermelon-Cucumber Salad
Capturing the fantastic flavors of summer, this refreshing, beautiful watermelon-cucumber salad will be the talk of any picnic or potluck. —Roblynn Hunnisett, Guelph, Ontario
Minty Sugar Snap Peas
Fresh mint adds a lively touch to cooked sugar snap peas. It's also nice on green beans or carrots. —Alice Kaldahl, Ray, North Dakota
Cantaloupe Ice Pops
Your reminders to "eat your fruit" will finally stick once kids take a lick of these mmm-melony snacks. A perfect use for overripe cantaloupe, these pops make a light dessert or healthy between-meal refresher. —Susan Hein, Burlington, Wisconsin
Cilantro & Lemon Marinated Chicken Kabobs
Cook the onions first so there’s plenty of room on the grill for the chicken skewers. Give the whole platter a spritz of lemon for a sunshiny delight. —Moumita Ghosh, Kolkata, West Bengal
Touch-of-Mint Iced Tea
My family loves the mild mint and lemon flavors in this iced tea. It's a wonderful alternative to soft drinks.—Martha Haseman, Hinckley, Illinois
Couscous Tabbouleh with Fresh Mint & Feta
Using couscous instead of bulgur for tabbouleh really speeds up the process of making this colorful salad. Other quick-cooking grains, such as barley or quinoa, also work well. —Elodie Rosinovsky, Brighton, Massachusetts
Hearty Chicken Gyros
I love reinventing classic recipes to fit our taste and healthy lifestyle. This recipe is quick to prepare and can be served with oven fries or on its own. You can add Greek olives, omit the onion, or even use cubed pork tenderloin for a new taste. —Kayla Douthitt, Elizabethtown, Kentucky
Mint Julep
It wouldn't be Kentucky Derby Day without this mint julep recipe! But, really, this Kentucky Derby mint julep recipe is good anytime. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Summer Orzo
I’m always looking for fun ways to use the fresh veggies that come in my Community Supported Agriculture box, and this salad is one of my favorite creations. I like to improvise with whatever I have on hand, feel free to do the same here! —Shayna Marmar, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Tandoori-Style Chicken with Cucumber Melon Relish
We all need a quick meal that's deliciously healthy. I marinate the chicken before I leave for work, and when I get home, I grill the chicken and make the relish. My husband loves the spicy flavor. To amp up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. —Naylet LaRochelle, Miami, Florida
Minted Beet Salad
We have neighbors who share vegetables from their garden, and every year my husband and I look forward to their beets. My interest in Mediterranean food inspired this beet salad recipe—the vinegar and oil dressing with fresh mint will tone down the sweetness of the beets, and the kalamata olives add a salty touch. —Barbara Estabrook, Appleton, Wisconsin
Couscous Salad with Olives & Raisins
There's plenty to like in this recipe, and you'll want to pair it with your next special meal.—Mya Zeronia, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Lemon Mint Curd
I like to "dress up" ordinary recipes with my fresh, homegrown herbs. This minty lemon curd is a family favorite! —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Cranberry-Lime Semifreddo with Pound Cake
Everyone has a favorite way to serve pound cake, but no one will expect this! It's my go-to trick for using up leftover cranberry sauce. —Christine Wendland, Browns Mills, New Jersey
Mint Watermelon Salad
I invented this refreshing fruit salad one sultry afternoon while my friends were gathered around my pool. It was quick to prepare and disappeared from their plates even quicker. Even the kids loved it! —Antoinette DuBeck, Huntingdon Valley, PennsylvaniaQuinoa 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
Grilled Pork with Pear Salsa
My husband, Dave, and I have been in a dinner group with three other couples for a few years. We often share our recipes. This grilled pork was served by one of the couples, and I decided to "pear" it with this fabulous salsa. —Suzan Ward, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Brown Sugar Salmon with Strawberries
I first tasted strawberries and cucumber together when living in the UK; now they make a delicious relish for salmon. —Judith Foreman, Alexandria, Virginia
Grilled Fruit Phyllo Tart
This tart was a hit at my friend's baby shower. It reminds me of a fruit salad that my mother used to make with cream cheese and whipped topping. Everyone loved the flaky crust, and the bright colors make it a pretty addition to any spread. —Laura McAllister, Morganton, North Carolina
Mediterranean Bulgur Bowl
You can also transform this tasty bowl into an Italian version with mozzarella, pesto, tomatoes, spinach and basil. —Renata Smith, Brookline, Massachusetts
Pork Tenderloin with Cranberry-Orange Relish
I like how grilled pork and fruit bring out the best in each other. If you have leftover relish, break out the tortilla chips! —Cindy Esposito, Bloomfield, New Jersey
Curried Beef Pitas with Cucumber Sauce
A good friend gave me this recipe when I first got married. I was a bit apprehensive to try it since the ingredients weren't that familiar to me, but, years later, it's now one of our family favorites. —Shannon Koene, Blacksburg, Virginia
Mint-Cucumber Tomato Sandwiches
I jazzed up the quintessential teatime cucumber sandwich to suit my family's tastes. This was my absolute go-to sandwich last summer when I was pregnant. It hit all the right spots! —Namrata Telugu, Terre Haute, Indiana
Spring Chicken and Pea Salad
My endive, radicchio and chicken salad with a dash of mint jelly dressing makes a wonderful meal for a luncheon or light dinner. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California
Moroccan Stuffed Mushrooms
Coriander and cumin are zesty updates to the familiar stuffed mushrooms. The addition of couscous makes them very filling and delicious. —Raymonde Bourgeois, Swastika, Ontario
Strawberry Mint Chicken
I hand-pick wild strawberries for this saucy chicken dish. We love it with fresh spring greens and a sweet white wine. —Alicia Duerst, Menomonie, Wisconsin
Pork Tenderloin with Cranberry-Pear Chutney
The perfect balance of tart and sweet to top a tenderloin—this autumn dinner is a family-favorite. Keep this chutney recipe on hand for turkey dinners, too. —Amanda Reed, Nashville, Tennessee
Whole Wheat Orzo Salad
In less than 30 minutes, I can put together this hearty salad of pasta, white beans and veggies – and it’s good for a crowd. — Mya Zeronis, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Mojito Marinated Fruit
All the flavors of the popular mojito cocktail are featured in this fantastic salad. After you eat the fruit, you’ll want to sip the luscious syrup! —Marcy Griffith, Excelsior, Minnesota
Mediterranean Layered Dip
This quick and easy dip begins with purchased hummus. It's then flavored with the Mediterranean flavors of feta cheese, olives and lemon. —Patterson Watkins, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Mimi's Lentil Medley
I made this one summer evening by putting together what I had on hand. My husband gave it his top rating. —Mary Ann Hazen, Rochester Hills, Michigan
Stuffed Grilled Zucchini
Pair up these zucchini boats with charred pork chops, smoked fish and other grilled greats. Not warm enough for cooking al fresco? Your old-fashioned oven will do. —Nancy Zimmerman, Cape May Court House, New Jersey
Grilled Greek Fish
Living in Tampa, we eat a lot of fresh fish, mostly grouper, mahi-mahi and tilapia—all sweet white fish that work well with this marinade. —Judy Batson, Tampa, Florida
Yellow Squash & Watermelon Salad
I always like to bring this to parties and potlucks, and people seem to really appreciate having a healthy option. No oil is necessary for this salad; the lemon juice combines with the feta to lightly coat the bright, fresh ingredients. —Camille Parker, Chicago, Illinois
Shrimp with Tomatoes & Feta
Any recipe that is special enough for company but easy enough for a weeknight meal is a favorite in my book. All you need to finish off the meal is a side salad and crusty French bread to sop up the delicious tomato and wine juices. —Susan Seymour, Valatie, New YorkGrilled 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