Rosemary
Season: Spring/fall
Storage: Place the leaves on a plate (chopped if using basil or parsley; whole if using thyme or rosemary) and set aside in a cool, dry place for several days. Then store them in a resealable container in the refrigerator.
Other Names: Salvia rosmarinus, compass weed, old man, romero
Rosemary is a woody evergreen herb with fragrant spiky leaves. Originating in the Mediterranean, it has been used in cooking since 400 BC and still remains popular in Greek dishes. The aromatic herb was an ingredient in Eau-de-cologne, a scent favored by Napoleon Bonaparte and used in popular cologne throughout 18th century Europe. The essential oils obtained from rosemary were thought to have first been extracted in the 14th century when it was used to make “Queen of Hungary water” a popular cosmetic for the time. Rosemary grows well along the coastlines; its botanical name is derived from the Latin words ros for ‘dew’ and marinus for ‘the sea’. It thrives in warmer climates and is often used as an ornamental shrub. Here in the US, rosemary is a popular herb for season stuffing and its flavor also pairs well with red meat. Try mixing it into homemade bread or use it to flavor your olive oil.
Get local rosemary by joining our Farm Share or shopping at farmer’s markets, thenshare your favorite preparations through our Facebook page.
Easy Rosemary Garlic Focaccia Bread
A recipe by Adam and Joanne from Inspired Taste