Easy Mealtime Mediterranean Inspiration

Add Mediterranean Flavors with Herbs and Spices

Herbs and spices are at the heart of the flavor profiles of Mediterranean cuisine. Beyond adding wonderful flavor, the following Mediterranean herbs and spices are among the McCormick Super Spices, highlighted for their high level of antioxidants. Discover the simplicity of adding a Mediterranean touch to everyday dishes.

OREGANO

-  Forego the butter and sour cream on a baked potato. Instead, drizzle with 1 teaspoon of olive oil mixed with a sprinkle of Oregano Leaves.

-  Enhance canned foods like soup and tomato sauce by stirring Oregano Leaves into chicken noodle or lentil soup, or low-sodium jarred tomato sauce.

ROSEMARY

-  Make a delicious Mediterranean roasted chicken. Before roasting, brush chicken with olive oil. Sprinkle all over with 2 teaspoons crushed Rosemary Leaves, 1/2 teaspoon Thyme Leaves, Sea Salt and Ground Black Pepper. Serve with lemon wedges.

-  Sprinkle vegetables such as asparagus, spinach or tomatoes, with crushed Rosemary Leaves.

THYME

-  Thyme brings out the flavor of mushrooms. Sauté 1 pound sliced mushrooms in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon Thyme Leaves.

-  Mix 1 stick softened butter, 1/2 teaspoon Parsley Flakes, 1/4 teaspoon Tarragon Leaves and 1/8 teaspoon Thyme Leaves until well blended and use the Mediterranean-Style spread on vegetables, potatoes and pasta.

RED PEPPER (Paprika, Crushed Red Pepper, Cayenne)

-  Serve bread with Mediterranean spiced olive oil. Mix 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder, 1/8 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper and sea salt to taste in small shallow dish.

-  Mix up your own spiced salt by mixing 2 tablespoons Sea Salt, 2 teaspoons Paprika, 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cumin and a pinch of Ground Red Pepper. Sprinkle over grilled or roasted meat, fish and poultry.

For more tips and delicious recipes visit www.spicesforhealth.com.