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Valentine's Day—or any day—is the time to think beyond right now and into the future. And what better way to give a gift that will last and last, than to give the gift of dirt?
Maybe you need help envisioning the gift: make it a big bag of organic potting soil or peat moss. Throw in some organic herb seeds and there you have it—perpetual plants! And if you plant herbs, you'll be eating that gift for months and years to come. What better way to say "I Love You" on Valentine's Day than to give a healthy, natural, ongoing gift?
If you're new to herb growing, you'll want to start with easy-to-grow plants like mint, parsley, oregano, chives and basil. These hardy plants will reward you with tasty accents that work with just about any recipe.
Homemade Organic Herb Butter
Ingredients 1 (4 oz.) stick organic butter, softened 1/4 cup homegrown, organic herbs (your choice), finely chopped 1 tsp lemon juice Sea salt, to taste
Any combination of herbs will do here. Trying a mixture of any of the following: tarragon, chives, parsley, dill, rosemary, thyme, sage, dill or use a single herb. Chop the herbs as fine as possible.
Directions: Cream the butter and herbs together with a fork. Add the lemon juice and salt to taste.
On a piece of plastic wrap, shape the butter into a log about one inch in diameter. Wrap the log in plastic. The butter will keep in the refrigerator for a week or a month in the freezer.
When you're ready to use it, just slice off a piece and place directly on the hot food. If the butter is frozen, let it warm slightly before using.
Mixed Herb Dressing
Ingredients:
Directions: Combine all ingredients in a jar with a tight fitting lid. Shake well. Let stand 10 minutes. Serve over crisp salad greens.
Makes 2/3 cup
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