Herbs and Spices for Italian-Style Sandwiches

By Rose Swartz July 10, 2023 16 mins read 147 Views

Herbs and spices can elevate the flavor of any dish. While fresh herbs are always best, dried versions can be used as well.

One of the most popular seasoning blends out there is Italian seasoning. It usually includes basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme and marjoram.

Basil

Basil is an aromatic herb that can elevate the flavor of a sandwich. It is a member of the mint family and can be used in a wide variety of recipes.

It has a fresh, green aroma with a hint of sweet licorice. It is a staple ingredient in many Italian dishes and is also commonly found in Asian cuisines.

It is a versatile herb that can be dried for use later in cooking or flash frozen. The leaves can be chopped and added to soups, stews and other dishes at the end of cooking for extra flavor without compromising their texture or color.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a common herb in Italian cuisine and can be used to elevate the flavor of your sandwich. Try adding it to a rosemary garlic pull-apart bread for an elevated take on the classic grilled cheese!

Our Rosemary Focaccia is light and airy with a slightly crisp crust. It’s perfect with grilled meats, fish or vegetables.

It’s also a wonderful choice for French toast! You can enjoy it with a drizzle of sweet butter or as a savory strata.

Then there’s our Rosemary Pesto Grilled Cheese. It’s an elevated take on everyone’s childhood favorite grilled cheese sandwich.

Oregano

Oregano is a common herb that is used throughout the world. It is found in Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine, and has been a cornerstone of Italian food since it was invented.

Oregano comes in both dried and fresh forms. When using fresh oregano, remove the leaves from their stems and chop them coarsely before adding to a dish.

Whether you choose to use it fresh or dry, this herb is a powerhouse of nutrition. It has the highest antioxidant activity compared to other culinary herbs, which may help decrease oxidative stress and promote heart health.

Oregano can also be added to soups, stews, sauces and marinades. It is often included in Italian and other Mediterranean dishes such as plant-based pizza, pasta, grilled meats and fish.

Marjoram

Marjoram is a soft, perennial herb that is often found in Mediterranean cuisine. It can be used fresh or dried and has a flavor that is similar to thyme and oregano.

Dried sweet marjoram can be purchased at most grocery stores in the spice aisle. It is a staple for adding to stews, sauces, salads and even herb blends.

Unlike oregano, fresh marjoram has a subtler taste that works well in delicate vegetables and tomato-based dishes. It can also be added to meat and chicken dishes, such as stuffing and roasted pork.

Dried sweet marjoram is a good substitute for fresh marjoram in herb blends, such as herbes de Provence, but it tends to be more potent than the fresh stuff. Fresh sweet marjoram is best added toward the end of cooking, so it has plenty of time to meld with the other ingredients.

Thyme

Whether used in pasta, pizza, meatballs, or sandwiches, thyme can elevate the flavor of any meal. This blend of herbs and spices is a staple in the kitchen that will take you right back to Italy!

For a classic Italian hero, start with a crusty roll with pillowy insides (or toast soft rolls). Layer salty cured meats on the bread for an array of umami. Then add pickles, onions and dressed lettuce for a fresh crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make medicinal herbs?

There are many different methods to make herbs into medicinal products. The most common method is to dry the herbs in a warm, dark location before grinding them into a powder or extracting their essential oils. This can be accomplished by hanging herbs upside down in bunches, laying herbs on a drying screen, or using a food dehydrator.

Once dried and ground, herbs can be stored in airtight containers for future use. Other herbs may require special preparation, such as infusing herbs into oil or vinegar, making tinctures with alcohol, or distilling herbs to create essential oils.

Learning the correct techniques for preparing herbs can help ensure that they retain their medicinal properties and potency for optimal health benefits. Using fresh herbs is usually best, but herbs can also be grown in a pot or garden and harvested when they are mature. Herbs can be purchased at health food stores, online retailers, and specialty shops.

No matter where herbs come from, the preparation techniques remain the same; drying herbs in a warm location followed by grinding or extracting the essential oils. You can make your medicinal herbs with the right herbs and preparation techniques.

When making herbal preparations, it is essential to remember that herbs can vary in potency, so always dilute herbs before use or follow the directions on any product label. Additionally, herbs are best used fresh, as many of their beneficial components degrade over time.

Following safety guidelines and paying attention to the potency of herbs can help ensure that you get the most benefit from your herbs. With a bit of practice and preparation, anyone can make therapeutic herbs with medicinal properties. Remember that herbs should never replace any medical advice or treatments prescribed by a doctor. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before using herbs medicinally.

How is basil used for medicinal purposes?

In ancient times, doctors would prescribe basil leaves to treat colds and coughs. Today, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for arthritis, asthma, bronchitis, eczema, gout, hay fever, indigestion, migraines, menstrual cramps, sinus infections, sore throats, ulcers, varicose veins, and more.

Basil is also known for its ability to help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, skin conditions, and even aging.

Basil is often referred to as "the herb of grace" because it helps us relax and unwind after stressful situations. It is also said to improve memory and concentration, boost energy levels, increase libido, and enhance athletic performance.

The list goes on and on. Basil is a versatile plant that offers a wide range of benefits for our health and well-being.

What are the side effects of basil?

Basil is an herb that originated in tropical regions of India, Africa, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.

The plant is easy to grow in most climates and requires little maintenance. Basil also thrives in poor soil conditions and is very drought tolerant.

As for the health benefits, more than 200 known compounds are found in basil, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, polysaccharides, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve symptoms associated with arthritis, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, digestive disorders, depression, eczema, insomnia, infections, migraines, osteoporosis, psoriasis, respiratory problems, stress, and ulcers.

Basil is also a culinary spice and is often added to tomato sauces, soups, salads, pasta dishes, rice dishes, dips, casseroles, pizza toppings, pesto, chicken wings, and popcorn.

However, like all herbs, basil should be consumed in moderation. Too much of anything is not good for you. For example, eating large amounts of basil could lead to stomach upset. And if you have sensitive tummies, avoid consuming basil during pregnancy.

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.

You should only take one type of supplement at a time. If you take other medications, make sure they do not interact with each other.

You should never use herbs while on medication unless directed by your doctor.

Some people experience allergic reactions when using herbs, especially those allergic to ragweed. Symptoms include hives, swelling around the mouth or eyes, shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death.

Some people who take certain medications may develop an allergy to basil. These drugs include:

Antacids (like Alka Seltzer)
Anti-anxiety medicines (Valium, Xanax, Ativan, etc.)
Beta-blockers (like Propranolol)
Blood thinners (like Coumadin)
Calcium channel blockers (like Amlodipine)
Cholesterol-lowering drugs (like Lipitor, Zocor, Mevacor, and Pravachol)
Diabetes medicine (like Glucophage)
Diuretics (like Lasix)
Heartburn medicines (like Prilosec OTC)
Hormone therapy (like Premarin, Tamoxifen, Femara)
Insulin (like Humalog, Lantus, Novolin R)
NSAIDs (like Aleve, Motrin, Advil, Excedrin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen)
Oral contraceptives (like Ortho Evra, Yasmin, Loestrin, Ovrette, Yaz, and Seasonale)
Pain relievers (like Aspirin, Celebrex, Vicodin, Percodan, Darvocet, Dilaudid, Fiorinal, Tylenol 3s, Naproxen, Motrin, Tramadol, Ultram, Voltaren

What is the difference between basil and oregano?

Both of these herbs belong to the Lamiaceae family. They share similar flavors, but the differences are obvious.

Oregano is more pungent than basil. It also adds an extra layer of flavor to foods.

Basil leaves are smaller than oregano leaves. They are also softer and less aromatic.

The two herbs are often used interchangeably. Although they are quite similar, each has its distinctive qualities.

Statistics

The herbs market is highly competitive, with over 1,000 herb suppliers and over 15,000 herbs products available in the United States alone.
The global herbs market is expected to reach more than $125 billion by the end of 2025.

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How To

What to look for in herbs?

Herbs contain natural compounds that may help treat various conditions. In addition, herbal remedies may provide relief when used along with conventional treatments.

Herbal remedies include teas, capsules, tablets, ointments, creams, lotions, oils, and topical applications. Some of these products are meant to be taken internally, while others are applied externally.

The most common uses of herbal remedies include relieving minor aches and pains, treating cold symptoms, reducing fever, controlling coughs and sore throats, easing digestion problems, soothing skin irritations, alleviating menstrual cramps, and providing general health benefits.

When buying herbs, look for the following:

Freshly picked plants. Avoid dried herbs unless they've been stored in a cool place. If possible, buy herbs directly from farmers' markets.
Pure extracts. These are made by extracting the active ingredients from herbs using alcohol or water. Look for 100% pure extractions.
Certified organic herbs. Organic herbs must meet strict standards set forth by the USDA.
Natural flavors. Many herbs have strong scents that can overwhelm other foods. Adding flavorings such as vanilla, almond, or orange helps mask their smell.
Potency. The amount of active ingredient per unit weight varies depending on the type of herb.
Packaging. When purchasing herbs, check the packaging to ensure that it's clean and free of chemicals.