Mixing Organo in Your Daily Foods Recipes: Uses, Benefits and Importance

Oregano (Origanum vulgare, its scientific name) is the unassuming culinary herb from the mint family that has managed to create a place for itself in the Indian household. A lesser-known fact is that this modest, flavorful herb, often used as oregano leaves, has a host of health benefits. It contains vitamin A, C, E, and K, as well as iron, calcium, phosphate, magnesium, and fiber. It functions as a great antioxidant that supports the immune system. Not only this, it also has antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, so much so that it is used as a medicinal herb in parts of the world. Oregano oil is considered very useful when one comes down with a cold or flu because of its ability to relieve immediate symptoms of respiratory infections.

Oregano Benefits: Beyond the Kitchen

The benefits of oregano extend far beyond flavor. Its medicinal properties make it a powerhouse for combating infections and boosting overall wellness. For instance, its antioxidants neutralize free radicals, while its anti-inflammatory compounds can alleviate chronic conditions like arthritis.

Oregano Uses: Elevate Everyday Meals

Mostly associated with Italian cooking or as the “pizza pasta herb” in Indian kitchens, oregano leaves can be used in tons of other dishes – from cooking to baking or even as a dressing. Due to this versatility, it can be a part of any meal, right from breakfast to dinner. Start your day with some baked beans garnished with oregano and chili flakes. For lunch, it acts as a great addition to chicken or lamb gravy, stir-fried vegetables, or chopped zucchini in cheese sauce. Coat some potatoes with oregano and olive oil and bake for a simple, quick evening snack.

You can whip up some Italian dressing by combining olive oil, white wine vinegar, oregano, lemon juice, basil, red pepper, garlic powder, and parsley – great with any salad. Slather some Nutralite Garlic and Oregano table spread onto olive bread or focaccia to instantly improve the taste factor, or add extra flavor to your homemade tomato sauce by mixing in a spoonful.

The Importance of Oregano in Modern Diets

When it comes to oregano, there are a myriad of options to include it in your cooking; so it would be a shame to relegate it only to pizza nights. Put a dollop of Nutralite table spread (a zero-cholesterol option enriched with Omega 3) on delicious parathas! Similarly, get creative with other kitchen staples and utilize oregano to jazz up even your simple, everyday meals.