GOODNESS
Garlic: Garlic is in the same family as onions and leeks, and purportedly provided ancient Roman soldiers the courage to battle the barbarians. Whether or not it gives you courage, it is known to lower blood pressure, which is great for your heart and helps prevent stroke. In addition, it has a long history as a digestive aid, so don't be shy with this wonderful herb, no matter what it does to your breath!

Oregano: This tasty herb finds itself in much Mediterranean cooking, and is just loaded with nutrients. It is good for the digestion, and has many powerful anti-oxidants (even more than blueberries) and anti-carcinogens. It also has antibacterial and antiparasitic properties. As if that weren't enough, is also an antifungal, even taking on the notorious candida yeast. You want to use fresh oregano, as the dried herb loses the volatile oils that are responsible for its many benefits.

Parsley: This refreshing herb is good for your breath and is apparently refreshing to the rest of your body. Like all green herbs, it is loaded with chlorophyll, which is just good for people. It helps you build tissue and fight inflammation. It has even been shown to help manage blood sugars and helps to keep your weight in check. More studies are needed, but it may even help to fight cancer. All that, and a breath freshener too? Who could ask for more?

Thyme: This aromatic herb has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and contains thymol, a well-known antiseptic (you might be gargling with it). It's good for the digestion and is supposed to have some aphrodisiac qualities, although that just may be be due to the well-known connection between love and good food.
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Recipe

Black and Green Olive Tapenade

serves
prep time: 10

ingredients

  • 1 cup Nicoise olives, pitted
  • 1 cup small green French olives (Picholine), pitted
  • 1/4 cup dried tomatoes, drained if necessary
  • 1 tablespoon capers
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 anchovy fillet
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil leaves
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
  • 3/4 teaspoon chopped fresh oregano leaves
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

directions

In a food processor, combine all the ingredients except the olive oil. Using the pulse button, process until coarsely chopped and well blended. Continue to process, slowly adding the olive oil. Refrigerate in a covered container. Use as needed.

note: Tapenade will keep up to 1 week, refrigerated, in a covered container.