What Herbs Go with Rosemary? (Thyme, Basil and More!)

Today I’m sharing What Herbs Go with Rosemary: A fresh flavor guide to help you decipher how to mix your companion plants.

Growing Up in an Italian Garden

Growing up, I was fortunate to spend countless hours in my Italian grandfather’s garden. It was a sprawling paradise filled with an abundance of fresh herbs, vegetables, and grapevines. One of my fondest memories is of my grandfather carrying a salt shaker in his pocket. He would wander through the rows of tomatoes, pluck one straight off the vine, sprinkle it with salt, and enjoy it right there in the garden. I still believe this is the best way to enjoy a fresh tomato. His pride in his garden was evident in his meticulous care of every plant, and his joy in sharing the fruits of his labor with family and friends was contagious.

rosemary plants in small containers at the garden shop
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A Love for Rosemary

Out of all the wonderful herbs my grandfather grew, rosemary has always been my favorite for a long time. There’s something about its scent and flavor that instantly transports me back to those sunny days spent in the garden.

I love using rosemary in my cooking, whether flavoring a roast chicken, seasoning potatoes, or adding a fresh sprig to a pot of green beans. Each year, I make sure to plant rosemary in my garden bed. I’ve even made a fresh rosemary wreath to hang in my kitchen while it dries, filling the room with its delightful aroma. You can read more about how to do this here.

overhead of herbs being chopped with herb scissors

The Best Herbs to Pair with Rosemary

When cooking with this versatile herb, rosemary, it’s essential to know which herbs complement its robust, piney flavor. Here’s a guide to the best herb pairings with rosemary and how to use them in your recipes. Rosemary is a strong herb with a resinous flavor, making it a great choice for meat dishes. 

It pairs wonderfully with bay leaves and lemon zest, especially in roast lamb recipes. For a savory twist, try mixing rosemary with parmesan cheese and pine nuts in equal parts to create a flavorful topping for meats. This combination enhances the taste and aroma, making your dishes truly stand out.

In dry rubs, rosemary’s peppery taste complements the mild flavor of other culinary herbs like sweet basil and flat-leaf parsley. When using rosemary for green beans, its strong, woody notes balance well with the vegetable’s mildness. Incorporating rosemary into a bouquet garni with parts sage and celery leaves adds depth to soups and stews, infusing them with a delicious herb mix.

herbs in clay pots being wrapped with twine to dry

What Herbs Go with Rosemary: A Fresh Flavor Guide

1. Thyme

Why It Works: Thyme has a subtle, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the strong notes of rosemary. The fresh taste of this combination creates a balanced herb mix that enhances a variety of dishes.

How to Use It: Combine rosemary and thyme when seasoning meats, especially lamb and chicken. They also work well with a roast vegetables dish and soups.

2. Sage

Why It Works: Sage’s slightly peppery and savory unique flavour complements the piney notes of rosemary, adding depth to your dishes.

How to Use It: Use rosemary and sage together in stuffing for poultry, or mix them into a marinade for pork. This popular herb is also great in savory baked goods like herb bread or scones.

3. Parsley

Why It Works: Parsley’s fresh, bright flavor contrasts nicely with the strong, woody taste of rosemary, bringing a burst of freshness to your dishes.

How to Use It: Sprinkle a mixture of chopped rosemary and parsley over roasted vegetables, and new potatoes, or add them to a lemony vinaigrette for a fresh salad dressing.

garlic scapes growing in garden

4. Oregano

Why It Works: Oregano’s bold, peppery flavor stands up well to the intensity of rosemary, making them a dynamic duo in Mediterranean dishes.

How to Use It: Combine rosemary and oregano in tomato sauce, or sprinkle them over grilled vegetables for a Mediterranean flair.

5. Fresh Basil

Why It Works: Basil’s sweet taste and aromatic flavor complement the earthy taste of rosemary, adding a touch of sweetness to your dishes.

How to Use It: Add rosemary and basil to your favorite pasta sauce, or mix them into a marinade for grilled chicken.

overhead of basil growing

Growing Rosemary and Other Herbs

Rosemary is not only great for cooking but also for companion planting. Its green leaves and robust scent deter pests, benefiting neighboring plants like citrus fruits and curly parsley.

Additionally, rosemary can be easily found in the grocery store or grown at home. When storing, keep rosemary in a plastic bag in the fridge to maintain its freshness. Whether you’re using it fresh or dried, rosemary is a versatile and essential herb in the kitchen. Growing rosemary and other herbs in your garden is a rewarding experience that brings fresh flavors to your kitchen. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Planting

  • Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-drained soil. Rosemary thrives in direct sunlight.
  • Spacing: Plant rosemary about 2-3 feet apart to give it room to grow. Other herbs like thyme, sage, and oregano can be planted nearby.

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has more great information on growing rosemary plants.

2. Watering

  • Rosemary: Water rosemary sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
  • Other Herbs: Most herbs prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering. Avoid waterlogging the soil.

3. Pruning

  • Rosemary: Regularly prune rosemary to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming woody. Use the pruned sprigs in your cooking or make a fresh rosemary wreath.
  • Other Herbs: Trim herbs like basil and parsley frequently to promote new growth and prevent flowering.
rosemary bunches on table

Making a Fresh Rosemary Wreath

Creating a fresh rosemary wreath is a wonderful way to preserve your harvest and add a fragrant touch to your home. Here’s how to do it:

Materials:

  • Fresh rosemary sprigs
  • A wreath frame (wire or grapevine)
  • Floral wire
  • Scissors

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Sprigs: Trim the rosemary sprigs to your desired length, removing any leaves from the bottom inch of each sprig.
  2. Attach to Frame: Starting at one end of the frame, use floral wire to attach the rosemary sprigs. Overlap each sprig slightly as you work your way around the frame.
  3. Secure: Once the frame is covered, secure the end of the wire and trim any excess. You can add other herbs or decorative elements if desired.
  4. Hang: Hang your wreath in a cool, dry place in your kitchen. As the rosemary dries, it will retain its scent and flavor, ready for use in your cooking.

FAQs for What Herbs Go with Rosemary: A Fresh Flavor Guide

  1. What herbs go with Rosemary in meat dishes?
    • Thyme, sage, and oregano are excellent herbs to pair with rosemary, especially in meat dishes like roast lamb or chicken.
  2. Can I use rosemary with parsley and basil?
    • Yes, rosemary pairs well with both flat-leaf parsley and sweet basil, adding depth and complexity to your dishes.
  3. What are some good uses for rosemary and thyme together?
    • Rosemary and thyme make a great combination for seasoning meats, creating dry rubs, and flavoring roasted vegetables.
  4. How do I store fresh rosemary?
    • Store fresh rosemary in a plastic bag in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Alternatively, you can dry rosemary and store it in an airtight container.
  5. What is the best way to use rosemary in cooking?
    • Rosemary can be used in various ways, including as a seasoning for meats, in bouquet garni for soups and stews, or mixed with other herbs like bay leaves and lemon zest for added flavor.

One of my favorite recipes using rosemary here!

sundried tomato and goat cheese dip with rosemary

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Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this post on What Herbs Go with Rosemary: A fresh flavor guide.

Pairing rosemary with other herbs can elevate your cooking and bring fresh flavor to your dishes. Whether roasting meats, seasoning vegetables, or creating herb wreaths, rosemary’s versatile nature makes it a wonderful addition to any recipe. Growing your herbs and experimenting with different pairings is not only a culinary adventure but also a delightful way to connect with the traditions of home gardening. So, grab your garden basket, step into your garden, and start exploring the wonderful world of herbs!

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