What is a Good Way to Use Dried Oregano Besides Putting it on Pizza?

Dried oregano, a versatile herb originating from the Mediterranean, is more than just a pizza seasoning. It boasts a rich, aromatic flavor that can elevate a variety of dishes. From soups and stews to marinades and salad dressings, dried oregano's earthy and slightly sweet notes make it an excellent choice for adding depth to any recipe. Here are nine delicious ways to use dried oregano in your cooking:

Soups and Stews

Adding dried oregano to soups and stews can create a rich and aromatic flavor profile. It pairs particularly well with tomato-based soups and bean dishes, offering a burst of warmth and complexity. These herbs help infuse the dish with distinctive Mediterranean notes, enhancing the overall taste.

Marinades

Incorporate oregano into marinades for meats, poultry, or vegetables. It complements a variety of flavor bases such as olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and lemon juice. This herb works wonders when mixed with these elements, providing a flavorful and aromatic addition to your marinades.

Salad Dressings

Homemade salad dressings can be elevated by adding dried oregano. Mix it into vinaigrettes to add an herbaceous note, complementing the other ingredients. The blend of flavors from oregano and your chosen base ingredients make for a tasty and creative dressing option.

Roasted Vegetables

Sprinkle oregano on vegetables before roasting to enhance their flavors. This can be particularly efficacious in dishes like roasted potatoes, carrots, or zucchini. The heat from the oven releases the oregano's essential oils, further enriching the taste and smell of the vegetables.

Pasta Dishes

Use dried oregano in pasta sauces, especially in marinara or meat sauces. It adds a depth and complexity that significantly improves the overall dish. When combined with the other ingredients, oregano brings a layered flavor profile that elevates the sauce.

Herb Blends

Combine oregano with other dried herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary to create your own herb blend. This custom mix can be used for seasoning meats, vegetables, or grains, providing a versatile and customizable flavor option in your kitchen.

Bread and Focaccia

Incorporate oregano into bread dough or sprinkle it on focaccia before baking for a fragrant finish. This not only adds flavor but also creates a visually appealing topping. The drying process of the oregano leaves allows for a nice crunch and robust aroma when baked.

Egg Dishes

The versatility of dried oregano extends to egg dishes as well. Add it to scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas for a Mediterranean twist. The fresh, herby flavor complements the richness of eggs and adds a new dimension to these classic dishes.

Taco Seasoning

Integrate oregano into taco seasoning for a unique flavor in tacos, burritos, or chili. This brings a distinctive and complex taste to your favorite Mexican dishes, transforming them into more memorable culinary experiences.

Infused Oils

Create an infused olive oil by steeping dried oregano in olive oil. This can be used for drizzling over dishes or as a bread dip. Infused oregano oil adds a concentrated herb flavor that enhances the taste of any dish it contacts, making it an invaluable ingredient in your kitchen.

While oregano is traditionally associated with pizza and marinara sauces, its potential doesn't end there. Exploring its use in soups, roasting vegetables, and creating custom blends can offer new and exciting flavor combinations. Next time you're in the kitchen, consider adding this aromatic herb to your culinary arsenal to create something truly special.

Simple Solid Sunny Salad
For a quick and simple demonstration of how oregano pairs with tomatoes, you can prepare a simple salad. Cut your tomatoes, transfer them into a bowl, drizzle with a little olive oil, add a pinch of salt, some chopped basil leaves, and a generous dusting of oregano. This combination is simple, solid, and absolutely divine. Don’t forget to mop up the juice with a piece of crusty bread!

For those who find themselves thinking, "Oregano doesn’t belong on anything besides pizza," I must correct that notion. Dishes such as marinara and spaghetti sauce are the exception, not the rule. Oregano can be used for fish, grilled chicken, and even in a tomato salad. The possibilities are endless, and your palate will be eagerly awaiting your culinary explorations.