You have probably seen oregano before and associations of pizza and pasta may come to mind. But there is so much more to this spice. Besides being used in certain dishes, oregano has a rich history and many health purposes. The name of the herb comes from the Greek words “oros,” meaning mountain, and “ganos,” meaning joy. It is a Mediterranean herb that is used for cooking and medicinal purposes, ranging from treating infections to giving dishes extra flavor. It is related to mint so people with an allergy to mint should take care when consuming oregano.

Aside from great flavor, oregano is full of nutrients. It is packed with fiber so it’s great for your digestive system. It is a natural form of omega-3 fatty acids, the beneficial type of cholesterol that’s great for heart health. Oregano also has a high content of manganese, calcium, iron, vitamin K.

How to best cook with this spice? Add it toward the end of the cooking process for maximum flavor. The smaller you chop or grind it-if you’re using fresh oregano- the more flavor will be released. Start with a small amount, as too much can make the food bitter. How much should you use if you are using it dried? One teaspoon of dried oregano is equivalent to one tablespoon of fresh oregano.

Oregano goes great with chicken, no matter the preparation. You can also use it to season turkey, beef, and fish. Add our Herbes de Provence to bread for herb rolls. Add oregano to your burger mix for a pop of flavor. If you love beans then you will love putting this spice with it, combining together for a fantastic side dish. Try our Oregano, Basil, and Tomato blend which goes great in soups such as tomato, potato, and chicken soup. If you want to mix it with other spices then try thyme, garlic, and basil. Oregano goes great with vegetables such as potatoes and cauliflower. And of course, it’s great with pasta. Try the Pasta Herb the next time you cook and you will surely be pleased. The possibilities are endless with this fantastic spice.