Tomorrow is More Herbs, Less Salt Day

Photograph by Karyn Christner.

Photograph by Karyn Christner.

Melinda’s Garden Moments is heard Mon.-Fri. at 7:45 and 10:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on WHAV.

Melinda’s Garden Moments is heard Mon.-Fri. at 7:45 and 10:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on WHAV.

Put away the saltshaker and season your meals with herbs instead.

Saturday, Aug. 29 is National More Herbs, Less Salt Day. Substituting herbs for salt can increase the flavor and health benefits in your meals.

Use turmeric, fresh ginger and fresh garlic for added flavor and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Fans of savory flavors can add onions and garlic for a bit of kick. Try dill on potatoes, tomatoes, fish and green beans.

Season your tomatoes, chicken and green beans with oregano.

And add rosemary to lamb, chicken and potatoes and sage and thyme on beef and potatoes. Use marjoram in soups, peas and summer squash.

Get the most flavor from fresh herbs by crushing or rubbing them just before adding them to the dish. Use them as rubs or in marinades to increase flavor.

Plus, fresh herbs can make your meal look and smell more appealing.

A bit more information: Though we can’t grow all possible salt substitutes, we can add a few to our pantry. Try using cinnamon in place of salt. Season your soups, squash, and carrots with nutmeg. Try cloves for seasoning fruit and beef and curry powder or cumin on corn, tomatoes, and fish.

For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com.