Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking with Edie Grice, a seasoned gardener and herb enthusiast. Her insights and tips on herb gardening have been invaluable, enriching my understanding and appreciation for these versatile plants. Edie emphasized the importance of regular pruning and creative uses for herbs, inspiring me to experiment further with my rosemary.
When talking with Edie, I learned about her flourishing herb garden, which thrives under the summer sun.
“In my garden, herbs thrive, growing lush and vibrant,” Edie shared, emphasizing her passion for cultivation.
Edie’s favorite herbs include basil, sage, oregano, and rosemary, each contributing unique flavors and aromas to her culinary creations.
“Among them, my rosemary stands out, growing so vigorously that it now resides in its own pot, towering at four feet tall,” she explained. This impressive growth not only showcases her gardening skills but also provides her with an abundance of fresh ingredients.
Edie’s tips and enthusiasm for gardening are a testament to the benefits of cultivating herbs at home, encouraging others to enjoy the fruits of their labor in the kitchen.
With a bountiful harvest on hand, Edie finds exciting ways to use her rosemary, from cooking to crafting herbal remedies and beyond. Whether it's whipping up delicious rosemary focaccia or creating DIY rosemary hair oil, her garden continues to inspire creativity in the kitchen and home.
To keep up with her flourishing herb garden, Edie spends time twice a week, scissors in hand, pruning and harvesting her herbs to promote their growth. The result is a bountiful harvest that enhances her meals and leaves her with plenty of extra rosemary.
Edie shares that, “Over the years, I’ve discovered exciting ways to use the surplus rosemary that grows in abundance.”
Rosemary Focaccia Bread
One of Edie’s favorite uses for leftover rosemary is baking rosemary focaccia bread. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for beginner bread makers.
Imagine warm, golden slices infused with the essence of this Mediterranean herb. It’s like a hug for your taste buds—a savory escape from the summer heat!
Rosemary Focaccia Bread Recipe
- Mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 packet of instant yeast, a pinch of salt, and olive oil.
- Add chopped rosemary leaves to the dough.
- Let it rise, then press it into a baking pan, and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden.
Rosemary Hair Oil
Another one of Edie’s uses for rosemary is beyond the kitchen; she has discovered that rosemary can be transformed into a luxurious DIY rosemary hair oil.
Picture sun-kissed strands, nourished by the essence of a wild garden! She shares that this hair oil is like “bottling sunshine and herbal wisdom, perfect for maintaining healthy, shiny hair.”
DIY Rosemary Hair Oil Recipe
- Fill a glass jar with rosemary sprigs.
- Cover them with olive oil or coconut oil.
- Let it infuse on your windowsill for a few weeks.
- Strain out the oil and massage it into your scalp.
Other Uses
Herbs can be used for so many different things. Transform your bath into a spa-like experience with homemade herbal bath salts. Rosemary and thyme are great additions to a relaxing bath. I combine a few tablespoons of herb leaves with two cups of Epsom salt and six drops of essential oil. Lemon essential oil is ideal if you want an uplifting fragrance, while lavender is perfect for unwinding.
To make cleanup easy, scoop your bath salts into a sachet when you’re ready to use them, then put the sachet in the tub. This simple addition turns any bath into a soothing retreat.
You can also chop up leftover herbs and fill ice cube trays with them, then cover with water or olive oil. Once frozen, these herb cubes can be a convenient way to preserve the fresh flavor of your herbs throughout the year.
Simply pop one into soups, stews, or sauces whenever you need a burst of herbal goodness. It’s a great way to prevent waste and always have your favorite herbs ready to enhance your cooking. Using frozen herb cubes can save time and add depth to your dishes, making meal prep easier and more flavorful!
Rosemary is the remedy
Having an herb garden not only enhances your meals but also provides endless opportunities to explore the many uses of fresh herbs. The vibrant flavors of rosemary can elevate any dish, while its nourishing properties can transform your haircare or bath routine.
So, next time your rosemary runs wild, channel your inner flavor alchemist. Your taste buds, tresses, and senses will thank you!
