(Origanum vulgare)

Oregano means “mountain joy” and along with basil, is synonymous with tomato based Italian cooking. But, this herb is widely used in Turkish, Greek, Spanish and Mexican culinary dishes too. The flavor of oregano depends on where it is grown; plants grown in hotter climates have a stronger flavor. If oregano is too overpowering for certain dishes, substitute with sweet marjoram, a close relative that has a more delicate flavor.

Health Benefits

The main constituents in oregano include carvacrol, thymol, limonene, pinene, ocimeme and caryophyllene. These phytonutrients exert powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Nutritional Value

Dried oregano is a good source of vitamin K.

Recipe Ideas

Although many varieties are grown, Greek oregano is most commonly found at the market. Oregano, either in its fresh or dried form, should be added toward the end of the cooking process since heat can easily cause a loss of its delicate flavor. Add a dash of oregano to Tomato Soup. Make your own Greek Salad Dressing and toss with romaine lettuce, Kalmata olives, fresh tomato and cucumber.

Interesting Facts

A USDA study found that, gram for gram; oregano has the highest antioxidant activity of 27 fresh culinary herbs.