KITCHEN SOLUTIONS - THE BENEFITS TO USING HERBS IN THE KITCHEN

Herbs are a fragrant and flavorful way to put some extra zing into what you are already preparing.  They have very few calories and absolutely no salt!  So you can add as much as you want and be totally guilt free in doing so!

Here are some suggestions:

THYME - Try adding thyme into stews, soups, salads (or in the dressing).  Just 2 teaspoons of thyme and you are getting almost 20 percent of your daily iron intake needs.  Thyme is often used in teas and/or cough syrups to ease dry coughs and to soothe a sore throat as well.

BASIL - Basil is commonly used in pizza, spaghetti sauces (or marinara sauces), and other popular Italian dishes.  Two teaspoons of basil, and you get 5 percent of your daily requirement of magnesium.  Magnesium is a mineral that helps to maintain muscle and nerve function.  It also helps to keep heart beats steady, supports a strong and healthy immune system, and keeps bones strong.  (It is also said that magnesium helps to curve those chocolate cravings.)

CILANTRO - Cilantro is a very versatile herb.  You can use cilantro for salsas, tacos, salads, or add to fish dishes.  By using cilantro with meat dishes, you can reduce the potential for bacterial contamination in the meat.  (This herb was used more than 2,000 years ago, by the Romans, to preserve meat!)  Cilantro is also used to help promote healthy digestion.

ROSEMARY - Rosemary is delicious in chicken dishes!  Try using rosemary in marinades to help cut down the risk of cancer.  The antioxidants, found in rosemary, may help combat potential carcinogens created when meats are grilled or broiled at temperatures above 400 degrees Fahrenheit.  

DILL - Try using dill to wake up your tuna (or on grilled fish)!  Dill is also wonderful on potatoes.  Using this herb can help your body maintain healthy cholesterol levels.  There is also evidence, that suggests, that dill may also help relieve indigestion.

PARSLEY - We often think of parsley as just a garnish, but parsley is actually much more than that.  Parsley can be added to salads, dressings, dips, marinades and more.  Two teaspoons of dried parsley is 150 percent of your daily vitamin K requirements.  Vitamin K is important for healthy blood clotting and bone health.  Parsley is also high in vitamins A and C!

Adding herbs to your dishes will add delicious flavor and more importantly help to promote good health in your family.  With picky kids and picky husbands that can be quite challenging!