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Cooking Italian food? You'll need these herbs

By Anujj Trehaan

Jul 14, 2025

10:24 am

What's the story

Italian cuisine, known for its aromatic herbs and rich flavors, is a delight for vegetarians. The right herbs can elevate even the simplest of dishes, adding complexity and depth. Indispensable for the classic pasta or fresh salads, these herbs lend a real Italian touch to vegetarian cooking. Here are the must-have herbs for your kitchen.

Drive 1

Basil: The quintessential herb

Basil is a staple in Italian cooking, famously known for its sweet, slightly peppery flavor. It pairs perfectly with tomatoes, making it an essential ingredient in Caprese salad, Margherita pizza, and other dishes. Fresh basil leaves can be used to garnish dishes or blended into pesto sauce for pasta. Its aromatic qualities also make it perfect for infusing oils and vinegars, adding an extra layer of flavor to your meals.

Drive 2

Oregano: A flavorful addition

Oregano is another essential herb in Italian cuisine, providing a bold and earthy flavor. It is widely used in tomato-based sauces, adding depth to the dish. Oregano's assertive taste makes it ideal for seasoning roasted veggies or sprinkling on pizzas before baking. Dried oregano holds its strength excellently, making it a handy substitute when fresh leaves aren't on hand.

Drive 3

Rosemary: Aromatic delight

Rosemary brings an aromatic pine-like fragrance to vegetarian dishes. You can use its woody stems whole or chop them finely to release their full flavor potential. Rosemary complements roasted potatoes beautifully and adds depth to soups and stews when simmered slowly with other ingredients like beans or lentils.

Drive 4

Thyme: Versatile herb choice

Thyme has the versatility of being used with its subtle but distinct aroma that goes well with Italian recipes' other ingredients, like mushrooms or zucchini slices sauteed together on low heat until tender but browned too much. This way, thyme's delicate notes get to shine through without overpowering the other flavors in every single bite taken from these deliciously prepared vegetables.