No matter who you are, Mediterranean herbs are a must-have for your herb garden. Originating from the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, these herbs prefer warm climates and well draining soils.

Each of these spices or herbs gives a regional expression to the dishes it’s used in. Depending on the Mediterranean spices and herbs you use in cooking, your dish can be Greek, Turkish, Italian, and so on!

Today, these herbs are popular worldwide. Everyone has at least a couple of these classic culinary herbs in their pantry. They’re considered staples for most cooking. From cumin and oregano through mint and cilantro, you’ll find a wealth of delicious flavor.

Best of all, most of these herbs are surprisingly easy to grow. Building an herb garden around these culinary staples is easy and rewarding, and you’ll never lack for your favorite flavors!

1. Parsley

Parsley can be used in so many dishes and it is simply loved by everyone. It is packed with vitamins A, B12 and C and contains loads of potassium. Rich in anti inflammatory properties, it promotes digestion. Growing parsley at home is no big deal. It just needs plenty of sunlight and loamy soil with good drainage. Soak seeds in warm water for a day before planting. You should be able to harvest within 2 to 3 months.

2. Saffron

Saffron is counted as the most expensive of Mediterranean herbs that is used for adding beautiful color and flavor to dishes such as paella and bouillabaisse. This rich colored herb contains calcium, zinc and potassium and has therapeutic properties. It is a great antioxidant, antidepressant and aids in digestion too. If you are growing saffron at home then you need to sow saffron bulbs known as saffron crocus. It thrives best in well drained soil and needs full sunlight.

3. Basil

Growing herbs at home is easy and basil is one such herb from the Mediterranean lands that is a favorite among culinary experts. It can be a great addition as a potted plant at your well lit window sill. It needs well drained soil and you should plant seeds at least 2 months before cold season as it is sensitive to cold season. Give at least 12 inch spacing between basil plants. Basil promotes cardiovascular health and contains anti microbial and anti bacterial properties.

4. Thyme

Thyme is also one of the most common herbs that work wonders when added to beans, eggs and vegetarian dishes. This Mediterranean herb is a strong antioxidant and contains anti bacterial properties. You can add thyme to your Mediterranean herb garden. All it needs is regular watering, bright light, airy and well drained soil.

5. Rosemary

Another popular among herbs is rosemary which has been enhancing the flavor of baked dishes since ages. The herb can grow anywhere but remember that it cannot withstand temperatures less than 1 degree. So grow before the frost and place the pots in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight. The herb is known to boost immunity and aids in blood circulation and pain relief.