FREE Paleo Diet Recipe Cooking With Herbs

The Role of Herbs in the Paleo Diet

The Paleo diet emphasizes whole foods, including a variety of plants. Herbs, which are the above-ground parts of plants, have been integral to human diets for centuries. They were not only consumed for their flavors but also for their medicinal properties. Early humans likely used fresh herbs for both culinary and health purposes.

What Are Herbs?

Herbs are plants used primarily for flavoring, aroma, and medicinal purposes. They can be grown in small spaces, making them accessible for home gardeners. While most herbs are used to enhance the flavor of dishes, some, like arugula, can be a substantial part of a meal.

Common Herbs in Paleo Cooking

Here are some popular herbs used in Paleo recipes:

• Arugula: Often mistaken for a vegetable, arugula is an herb with a peppery and slightly sweet flavor. It is commonly used as a lettuce substitute in salads.
• Bay Leaves: Typically used dried, bay leaves add depth to stews and soups.
• Basil: Fresh or dried, basil is a versatile herb that enhances both side and main dishes.
• Cayenne Pepper: Known for its spicy kick, cayenne pepper is used in various dishes, from vegetables to meats.
• Chili Pepper: Rich in antioxidants, chili peppers add heat to soups, stews, and vegetables.
• Chives: With a mild onion flavor, chives are perfect for salads, soups, and appetizers.
• Cilantro: Widely used in Asian, Caribbean, and South American cuisines, cilantro adds a fresh flavor to many dishes.
• Cinnamon: A dried herb often used in baking and desserts, cinnamon also makes a great topping for ice cream and eggnog.
• Dill: Dill seeds are used to flavor meats, poultry, fish, and salads.
• Garlic: A member of the onion family, garlic has been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries.
• Mint: This green leafy herb is used in desserts, shakes, drinks, and baking.
• Parsley: A popular herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups.
• Peppermint: Used fresh or dried, peppermint is common in candies, toothpaste, and teas. It also has medicinal properties.
• Sage: Fresh or dried, sage is used in poultry, soups, stews, and vegetables.
• Spearmint: Similar to peppermint but milder, spearmint is used in toothpaste, mouthwash, and as a food spice.

Interesting Herb Facts

• Arugula: Contains high levels of nitrates, which can help lower blood pressure (Source: Healthline).
• Cilantro: Contains dodecenal, a compound that has been shown to have antibacterial properties (Source: WebMD).
• Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic can help reduce the severity of common illnesses like the flu and common cold (Source: NIH).

FREE Paleo Recipe: Grilled Peach, Strawberry, Walnut Arugula Salad

Ingredients

• 3 cups fresh arugula
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• 3/4 cup sliced peaches (cut into eighths)
• 1 1/2 cups walnuts, soaked
• 2 tbsp virgin coconut oil
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp nutmeg

Preparation

1. Wash arugula and strawberries and set aside to dry.
2. Cut strawberries into quarters or halves.
3. Slice walnuts in halves.
4. Sauté sliced peaches in virgin coconut oil until tender and set aside.
5. Mix arugula, strawberries, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Top the salad with sautéed peaches and add a balsamic dressing of your choice.

Paleo Balsamic Dressing Recipe

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Adjust the ingredients to taste. Note that orthodox Paleo diets do not allow honey.

Serves: 4

Conclusion

Herbs are a fantastic addition to the Paleo diet, offering both flavor and health benefits. Whether you're using them fresh or dried, these plants can elevate your meals and contribute to your well-being. Enjoy experimenting with different herbs and try out the delicious Grilled Peach, Strawberry, Walnut Arugula Salad recipe!

For more Paleo recipes and tips, check out Paleo Leap and Nom Nom Paleo.