As the sun shines bright this summer, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill or whipping out a sheet pan to get your cooking game on. But what takes these warm-weather meals from good to great? The answer lies in one simple yet powerful ingredient: summer savory.
This fragrant herb, also known as Satureja hortensis, is often overlooked in favor of more popular herbs like basil or thyme. But trust us when we say that summer savory is a game-changer for your culinary arsenal. With its slightly bitter, minty flavor and aroma, it adds depth and complexity to everything from meats to vegetables to grains.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of summer savory. From grilled chicken and shrimp to roasted potatoes and carrots, and even a few surprising twists like infused olive oil and pesto pasta, you’ll discover just how easy it is to elevate your cooking with this underappreciated herb.
Grilled Chicken with Summer Savory and Lemon
This refreshing summer recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the bright, citrusy taste of lemon and the subtle savory note of summer savory. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried summer savory
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite summer vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, zucchini, onions) for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, summer savory, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the grilled chicken during the last minute of cooking.
6. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite summer vegetables, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Savory Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this refreshing summer twist! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the bright, herbaceous flavor of summer savory for a perfect side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried summer savory
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, summer savory, and salt until evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Summer Savory Bread
This refreshing bread combines the flavors of fresh herbs with a hint of savory notes, perfect for a summer gathering or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, rosemary, thyme, and salt.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water while stirring with a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, shape into a round or oblong loaf.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the bread and gently massage it in.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summer Savory and Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic shrimp dish, perfect for warm summer nights. This recipe combines the brightness of summer savory with the richness of garlic butter, resulting in a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh summer savory leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the chopped summer savory leaves and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add the shrimp to the saucepan and toss to coat with the butter mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fresh Tomato and Summer Savory Salad
Celebrate the flavors of summer with this simple yet flavorful salad featuring fresh tomatoes and aromatic summer savory.
Ingredients:
– 4 large, ripe tomatoes, diced
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
– 2 sprigs of fresh summer savory, chopped (about 1 tsp.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and chopped summer savory.
2. Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly with the dressing.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Summer Savory Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your summer dishes with this refreshing and flavorful olive oil infused with the subtle sweetness of summer savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup good-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons dried summer savory leaves
– Glass jar with tight-fitting lid
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the dried summer savory leaves.
2. Pour the olive oil over the herbs and stir until the mixture is well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a glass jar and seal it tightly.
4. Store the infused oil in a cool, dark place for at least 24 hours or up to 6 weeks to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Once the infusion process is complete, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time:
– Infusion time: 24 hours to 6 weeks
– No cooking required
Use your Summer Savory Infused Olive Oil as a finishing touch for pasta dishes, salads, grilled meats, or vegetables for added depth and warmth of flavor.
Savory Herb-Crusted Salmon
This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the earthy taste of herbs, creating a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With only a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, dill, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the herb mixture evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summer Savory and Thyme Roasted Carrots
Savor the warm weather with this simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a summer evening’s side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized sticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping them halfway through.
6. If using chicken broth, pour it over the carrots during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
White Bean and Summer Savory Soup
A refreshing summer soup that combines the creamy texture of cannellini beans with the subtle flavor of summer savory, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh summer savory leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the vegetable broth, cannellini beans, and summer savory leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional summer savory leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summer Savory Pesto Pasta
Bring the flavors of summer to your table with this quick and easy pasta dish featuring fresh summer savory pesto. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal on a warm evening, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup fresh summer savory leaves
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine summer savory leaves, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Add the pesto sauce to cooked pasta and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Summer Savory Focaccia
Perfect for warm weather gatherings, this fragrant focaccia is infused with the bright flavors of summer savory and fresh herbs. Served as a side or used as a base for sandwiches, it’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon summer savory leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, chopped herbs, and summer savory leaves. Knead for 10 minutes, until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Vegetables with Summer Savory Marinade
Elevate your grilled vegetables with a flavorful and refreshing marinade featuring the sweet and herbaceous notes of summer savory.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh summer savory
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, summer savory, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove from marinade and brush off excess.
6. Grill the vegetables for 8-12 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes total
Summer Savory and Rosemary Lamb Chops
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of summer savory with the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a warm-weather gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp summer savory, finely chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, summer savory, and rosemary.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill lamb chops for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Summer Savory Polenta
This refreshing summer recipe combines the comforting warmth of polenta with the bright, herbaceous flavors of savory. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stone-ground cornmeal
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh summer savory leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal and reduce heat to low. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add butter, salt, pepper, garlic, and summer savory leaves. Stir until well combined.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until polenta has thickened to your liking.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Summer Savory and Garlic Roasted Mushrooms
A flavorful and aromatic summer side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a standalone appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried savory
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, butter, garlic, and savory until well combined.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the bowl and toss to coat with the garlic mixture.
4. Spread the mushroom mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Summer Savory Butter for Corn
Elevate your summer corn game with this flavorful butter that combines the freshness of herbs and the earthiness of savory notes. This simple recipe adds a new dimension to grilled, boiled, or steamed corn on the cob.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh summer savory
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped summer savory, parsley, and lemon zest until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply spread or brush on your favorite corn dish before serving.
Summer Savory and Lemon Roasted Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing summer-inspired chicken dish, where the tangy zip of lemon and savory charm of summer savory combine to create a flavorful masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp summer savory
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, summer savory, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summer Savory and Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
Summer Savory and Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower Recipe
Elevate your summer sides with this flavorful and easy-to-make roasted cauliflower dish, perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through cooking time.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
This summer, bring out the flavors with these 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of summer savory. From grilled meats and roasted vegetables to breads and soups, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing chicken with lemon and summer savory, or infusing olive oil with the herb for a tasty finishing touch. Other highlights include herbed bread and focaccia, garlic butter shrimp, and creamy polenta. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, these recipes will keep your taste buds satisfied all season long.