Fresh herbs are one of the simplest ways to bring flavour, colour and fragrance into your cooking. They’re easy to grow on a windowsill or in a garden, and having them on hand makes everyday meals feel special.

Here are eight herbs worth using daily, with ideas for how to enjoy them.

1. Basil

Sweet, peppery basil is lovely in tomato dishes, pesto, salads and pasta. Add it at the end of cooking to keep its fresh flavour.

2. Parsley

Parsley adds brightness to almost anything. Chop it into salads, sprinkle it over soups or blend it into sauces. Flat-leaf parsley has a stronger flavour than curly.

3. Mint

Mint is refreshing in teas, fruit salads, yoghurt dips and grain salads. It grows quickly, so it’s best kept in its own pot.

4. Rosemary

Rosemary’s woody, pine-like flavour suits roast vegetables, potatoes, breads and soups. A little goes a long way.

5. Thyme

Thyme has a gentle, earthy flavour that works well in stews, roasted dishes and sauces. Strip the tiny leaves from the stems before adding them.

6. Coriander

Coriander, also called cilantro, brings a fresh, citrusy note to curries, salsas and Asian-inspired dishes. Some people find it tastes soapy, which is a natural difference in taste.

7. Oregano

Oregano is a classic in Mediterranean cooking. Use it in tomato sauces, on pizza or with roast vegetables. Dried oregano keeps much of its flavour.

8. Sage

Sage has a soft, slightly peppery flavour. It’s lovely with butternut, beans and pasta, and its leaves can be fried until crisp for a simple garnish.

Growing your own

Most of these herbs grow happily in pots in a sunny spot. Water them when the soil feels dry, and pick leaves regularly to encourage new growth.

Cooking mindfully with herbs

Next time you cook, take a moment to rub a herb leaf between your fingers and breathe in its scent. Notice how each herb smells and tastes. It’s a simple way to bring more presence into the kitchen.

A note of care

Herbs used in cooking are generally safe for most people. Supplements and large amounts are much stronger than a sprinkle in cooking, so if you’re pregnant or take medication, keep herbs to the kitchen.

How little is enough

Choose one herb to grow or buy this week and add it to a few meals. Notice how it changes the flavour.

For more, read how to start eating mindfully.

For more kind, simple ideas for everyday meals, you’ll find a gentle food guide on the Guides page.