Organic Box Mixed Herb Bundles

We have had excellent feedback on our great value Organic Herb Bundles that were introduced last week. This week we have a weekly meal plan with some great ideas for using your herbs.

Mixed Herb Bundles

Herbs are a delicious way to add flavour to your meals without the use of unhealthy additives such as white sugar and salt. They also add their own unique health benefits that are increased when choosing organic, making them an important addition to your organic box.

Herbs have a multitude of benefits and uses, here are some ideas:

Parsley
Parsley isn't just a garnish anymore – it's a nutritional powerhouse that deserves a spot in your regular diet. This humble herb, often relegated to the edge of the plate, packs a surprising punch when it comes to health benefits and culinary versatility.
 
A delicious addition to a range of dishes, learn more about today's benefits and uses below.
 
Health Benefits
1. Rich in Nutrients: Despite its small size, parsley is loaded with vitamins and minerals. It's particularly high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron.

2. Antioxidant Properties: Parsley contains flavonoids and other antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

3. Supports Heart Health: Compounds like luteolin and vitamin K in parsley contribute to cardiovascular health by supporting proper blood clotting and reducing cholesterol levels.

4. Anti-inflammatory: Apigenin, a flavonoid in parsley, has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in conditions like arthritis.

5. Digestive Aid: Parsley is rich in fibre, which supports healthy digestion and may help prevent constipation.

Uses

  • Works well with garlic, citrus and olive oil for salad dressings, steamed vegetable dressings and white meat.
  • Delicious as an addition to Mediterranean and tomato-based dishes.
  • A yummy addition to creamy omelettes, coleslaw and potato salad.
  • Can be used as a natural breath freshener by chewing with a sprig of mint.
  • Add to juices to extract the full health benefits of parsley.
  • Parsley essential oil may help reduce hair loss when massaged into the scalp.
  • Parsley facial scrub: mix a handful of parsley with one teaspoon of organic oat flour for a nutrient packed exfoliant. 

Coriander

Coriander is a fresh and delicious “wonder-herb” that is a versatile herb with several health benefits and culinary uses.

Health Benefits

Rich in Nutrients: Coriander leaves are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Antioxidant Properties: It contains antioxidants like beta-carotene and flavonoids that help protect against cellular damage.

Digestive Aid: Coriander is known to promote digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort. It can help with indigestion, bloating, and gas.

Anti-Inflammatory: Some studies suggest that coriander may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for conditions like arthritis.

Cholesterol Management: It may help lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and increase good cholesterol levels (HDL).

Blood Sugar Control: Coriander has been studied for its potential to lower blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for managing diabetes.

Uses

  • Add as a delicious zesty addition to home-made hummus.
  • Mix in with guacamole for a yummy bite.
  • Compliment green curries with a handful.
  • Garnish green salads, coleslaw and potato salads.
  • Mix with water or tea. Coriander water serves as a great detox drink as well. Detoxing helps eliminate all excess toxins and help you feel light and contribute to weight loss. It may be used as a herbal treatment for the prevention of nausea, vomiting, and stomach disorders.
  • To treat acne or oily skin: mix 1 tsp of coriander paste along with 1 tsp of lime juice. Massage the mixture on the affected area and wash it with cold water after an hour.
  • Prepare your own coriander lip balm to soothe dry lips. Take 2 tsp coriander juice and 1 tsp lemon juice. Apply it before going to sleep daily for a week or so

Basil

Basil is one of the oldest herbs known to mankind, and considered a holy plant in some cultures. Basil fortifies the digestive and nervous system, balances acidity within the body and can be a good remedy for headaches and insomnia.

Benefits

  1. Rich in Nutrients: Basil is a good source of vitamins A, K, and C, as well as minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
  2. Antioxidant Properties: It contains powerful antioxidants such as eugenol, linalool, and citronellol, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  3. Anti-Inflammatory: Basil contains essential oils like eugenol, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects similar to aspirin and ibuprofen.
  4. Heart Health: Compounds in basil may help lower cholesterol levels and support heart health. It also contains magnesium, which promotes cardiovascular health by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow.
  5. Immune Support: Basil has antimicrobial properties that can help fight infections and boost the immune system.
  6. Digestive Aid: Basil can aid digestion by stimulating the appetite and supporting healthy gut function.

Uses

  • Basil is a delicious addition to Italian dishes such as pizza and tomato-based pasta.
  • A rich basil pesto can be made by combining olive oil, spices, pine nuts, basil and garlic to top potatoes, mushroom risotto or meat.
  • Combine with coriander for a delicious green curry base.
  • Basil can be added to tea or works well with mint to make a refreshing herb-infused water.
  • Basil's powerful oil helps cleanse the skin from within and is perfect for those with oily skin due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It also helps remove dirt and impurities that clog pores. Make a paste of basil leaves and water. Apply the paste on your face and let it sit for 20 minutes and then wash it off with cold water. 
  • Basil tea may help manage stress, depression and anxiety by stimulating neurotransmitters that regulate our happiness and energy regulation hormones. Combine a handful with boiling water and honey and allow to cool enough to sip slowly.

Storing herbs

Our herbs store well in the fridge, but if you find that you have leftovers at the end of the week you can slice them and either put them in a freezer bag or put them in an ice cube tray with olive oil and store them in the freezer for up to six months.

We look forward to seeing photos of your culinary exploration of herbs on our social media page this week!

Why Organic?

Buying organic herbs is the only way to ensure that what you are consuming is free from pesticides, chemicals and genetic modification. studies have also shown that organic produce generally contains a higher nutrient value, increasing the health benefit of your organic herbs.

OrganicBox is introducing a great value option for those of you who love to cook with a wide range of herbs but find a whole bunch of each is too much. For only $5.20 (only 70 cents more than the price of a full sized organic bunch of one herb) you can order a Mixed Herb bundle of your choice.

SA Mixed Herb Bunch

A lovely bunch of fresh, organic South Australian Parsley, Coriander, Dill and Mint. You can find out more about their uses and benefits below, and see below for our weekly recipe plan!

Jarcman Mixed Herb Bunch

A tasty bunch of fresh, organic Australian Rosemary, Thyme, Bay Leaf and Sage. You can find out more about their uses and benefits below, and keep an eye out next week for a weekly recipe plan!

This week we are looking at eight delicious recipes to make the most of your OrganicBox SA HERB BUNDLE with at least one serving of healthy organic herbs per day. Please read on for recipes, and note that vegan alternatives have been included.

Dill Tzatziki and Rosemary Lamb Cutlets
German Dill Potato Salad and Atlantic Salmon
Mediterranean Mint Lemonade
Minty Fruit Salad
Parsley, Garlic and Lemon Steamed Veg with Chicken Strips
Mediterranean Fish Stew (Brudet)
Coriander Hummus and Felafel Balls
Thai Green Curry

Dill

Dill is a delicious herb that is part of the celery family. High in vitamins and minerals, it packs a delicious and tasty health punch to a variety of meals.
 
Dill Tzatziki and Rosemary Lamb Cutlets (serves 4)

  • 1 Cup Barambah Organic Greek Yoghurt (or vegan coconut yoghurt)
  • 1 OrganicBox Cucumber, peeled and chopped
  • Juice of one lemon
  • 1 clove OrganicBox Garlic, minced
  • Half of supplied OrganicBox  Fresh Dill (put some aside for garnish)
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • 8 – 12 Lamb Cutlets (or vegan Felafel Balls)
  • 4 Slices Pita Bread

  1. Stir all ingredients in a bowl and garnish with dill to serve.

  2. The tzatziki can be made one day ahead and refrigerated for a more pronounced flavour.

  3. Serve with toasted pita bread and lamb cutlets roasted or grilled in a rosemary and garlic marinade. (Felafel balls are a delicious vegan protein replacement for this meal)

German Dill Potato Salad and Atlantic Salmon (Serves 4)

  • 1kg  OrganicBox Potato, chopped into cubes
  • ¼ cup Organic Olive Oil
  • 2-4 Stalks Organic Spring Onion
  • ½ OrganicBox Onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • Half of supplied OrganicBox Fresh Dill (put some aside for garnish)
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • 4 Pieces Atlantic Salmon (Or Tofu)

  1. Cover chopped potatoes in cold water, bring to the boil and cook until tender.

  2. Drain potatoes and transfer to a bowl.

  3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring often until soft (around 5 minutes).

  4. Remove from heat and stir through vinegar.

  5. Add mixture to the potatoes, along with the remaining ingredients and toss.

  6. Serve with baked or grilled salmon.

Mint

Mint is a sweet antioxidant-rich herb that offers a range of health benefits, particularly for those with irritable bowel syndrome.
 
Mediterranean Mint Lemonade

  • 1 cups crushed ice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 large lemons (or limes), washed, cut into small pieces, and seeds removed
    Juice of ½ lemon
  • ½ fresh OrganicBox mint leaves
  • ½ cup organic honey 
  1. Add all ingredients to your blender and blend until smooth.
  2. Taste and add more honey to suit your preferences.
  3. You may wish to drink with the pulp, otherwise pour through a strainer when serving.
     

Minty Fruit Salad

  • 1kg fresh stone fruit (or preferred OrganicBox supplied fruit such as apples, banana, papaya)
  • ¼  cup fresh orange juice
  • ½ OrganicBox supplied fresh chopped mint leaves
  • 1  tablespoon honey

  1. Add chopped fresh stone fruit (any of the following: peaches, cherries, plums, nectarines, apricots or mangoes or your preferred OrganicBox fruit) to orange juice, mint leaves and honey. Stir and serve.

Parsley

Parsley is hailed as a diuretic, a blood purifier, and detoxifier. Regular consumption is said to aid in digestion, boost metabolism, and stimulate the appetite. Medieval doctors used it as an anecdote for poison, Tudor used it as a cure for baldness and medieval herbalist St. Hildegard prescribed parsley infused wine as a cure to improve circulation and treat heart ailments.

 
Parsley, Garlic and Lemon Steamed Veg with Chicken Strips

  • ½ OrganicBox Parsley
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter (or vegan alternative)
  • 1 pot steamed OrganicBox vegetables
  • Fried Tofu or Chicken Strips

  1. Prepare and steam a pot of your preferred OrganicBox vegetables.

  2. While it is steaming, mix butter and herbs in a small bowl until smooth. You may wish to add a tablespoon of rosemary and thyme leaves if you have also ordered the NSW herb parcel.

  3. When you have finished steaming, put the vegetables into a serving bowl.

  4. Put the herb mixture into the microwave or a small pot and heat until melted and then pour over the vegetables.

  5. Serve with fried tofu or chicken strips.

Mediterranean Fish Stew (Brudet)

  • 1.5kg Fish (or tofu as a vegan alternative)
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 4 tbsp white vinegar
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • 3 onions, finely chopped
  • 1 capsicum, finely chopped
  • ¼ OrganicBox parsley, chopped
  • ½ cup finely chopped tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp organic tomato paste
  • salt and pepper
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • Polenta, to serve

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the oil and fry the onion, capsicum and garlic on a low heat for a few minutes.

  2. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste  and a little stock and cook for around 10 minutes.

  3. Season the fish or tofu with salt and add to the saucepan.

  4. Add stock so that it covers the fish.

  5. Pour in the vinegar and simmer for 20 minutes. Do not stir as it will break the fish, but you can occasionally shake the pan.

  6. Add salt and pepper to taste.

  7. Add in the parsley and cook for a further 5 minutes.

  8. Serve with polenta and garnish with parsley.

Coriander

Coriander is a fresh and delicious “wonder-herb” that adds zest to any dish and typically adds flavour to chicken, salads and Asian and stir fry dishes.
Packed with eleven essential oils, six types of acid and lots of minerals and vitamins E, C and K.

Coriander Hummus and Felafel Balls

  • 2 cans chickpeas, drained
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 3 tbsp Greek yogurt (or vegan alternative)
  • 3 tbsp tahini paste
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra
  • zest and juice 2 lemons
  • ½ OrganicBox Coriander 

  1. Put everything into a food processor and blend until smooth.

  2. Spoon into a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil and garnish with coriander, salt and pepper.

  3. Serve with carrot and cucumber sticks for a snack, or falafel balls and pita for a meal.

Thai Green Curry

  • 1 cup Organic Basmati or Jasmine Rice
  • 400 ml coconut milk
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • Small piece ginger, grated
  • Tsp chilli seeds
  • 2 tbsp Olive or Coconut oil
  • 3 Spring Onion Stalks
  • ½ OrganicBox Coriander
  • 500g Chicken Thigh or Tofu, Sliced.
  • 500g preferred vegetables – Zucchini, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, spinach or bok choy are all delicious. 

  1. Begin to cook rice on a pot or in the rice cooker.

  2. Put everything else except  vegetables and chicken or tofu into a food processor and blend until smooth.

  3. Fry chicken or tofu in a deep pan until browned.

  4. Add vegetables and coconut mixture and boil for around an hour, removing lid halfway through to allow the sauce to thicken.

Back to blog

  • Australian Certified Organic boxes filled with the freshest organic produce right to your door. Product is sourced from our own farms and trusted local partners.

  • © 2004 - 2024 SA Organics Pty Ltd