18 Flavorful Fresh Sage Recipes for Every Season
As the seasons change, our kitchens can often feel like a reflection of nature’s rhythms. In the fall, we crave warm, comforting dishes that evoke feelings of coziness and gratitude. As winter sets in, hearty stews and braises become staples on our menus. And as spring arrives, fresh herbs like sage begin to make their presence known once again.
In this article, we’re celebrating the versatility and flavor of fresh sage with 18 delicious recipes that span every season. From savory pasta dishes to roasted meats and vegetables, these recipes showcase the herb’s ability to elevate even the most mundane ingredients into something truly special. So whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, we hope you’ll find something to inspire you here.
Brown Butter Sage Pasta
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of browned butter with the earthy sweetness of sage, perfect for a quick and elegant weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a rich and satisfying pasta dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in chopped sage leaves. Let it sit for 1 minute to allow flavors to meld.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the browned butter and sage mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash with Fresh Sage
Roasted Butternut Squash with Fresh Sage: A Fall Favorite
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of butternut squash by roasting it to perfection and pairing it with the earthy flavor of fresh sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh sage leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– 1 tsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Peel the butternut squash and remove the seeds.
3. Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the squash, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat.
5. Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and stir in chopped fresh sage and brown sugar.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sage and Garlic Roasted Chicken
A classic combination of flavors, this roasted chicken recipe pairs the earthy goodness of sage with the pungency of garlic for a deliciously savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and sage.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crispy Sage and Parmesan Potatoes
Crispy Sage and Parmesan Potatoes: A Simple yet Sophisticated Side Dish
These roasted potatoes are infused with the earthy flavor of sage and the salty richness of Parmesan cheese, making them a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, sage, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potatoes and return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Fresh Sage and Lemon Roasted Salmon
Elevate your dinner game with this bright and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy sweetness of sage with the zesty tang of lemon.
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
• 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle chopped sage leaves evenly among the fillets.
5. Squeeze lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle garlic minced garlic.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sage Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your culinary creations with this simple recipe for Sage Infused Olive Oil. This aromatic oil is perfect for finishing dishes, making vinaigrettes, or using as a dip for bread.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup high-quality olive oil
– 4-6 fresh sage leaves
– A clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sage leaves with cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Place the sage leaves in the glass jar, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
3. Pour the olive oil over the sage leaves, making sure they are completely submerged.
4. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-6 weeks to allow the flavors to meld.
5. After the infusion period, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids.
Cooking Time: None
Sage and Apple Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner game with this savory and sweet recipe that combines the earthy flavors of sage and apple with tender pork chops. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/2 cup diced Granny Smith apples
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped sage, diced apple, garlic, and honey.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pork chop with the sage-apple mixture, dividing it evenly among the four chops.
5. Place stuffed pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Sage and Mushroom Risotto
This Italian-inspired risotto combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and sage with a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped sage and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sage and Brown Butter Gnocchi
This autumnal take on traditional gnocchi combines the earthy warmth of sage with the nutty richness of brown butter, creating a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked potatoes (cooled)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cooled potatoes, flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
4. Cut the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten slightly to resemble traditional gnocchi.
5. Cook the gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
6. While the gnocchi cook, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped sage and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown.
7. Serve cooked gnocchi with brown butter and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Sage and Cheddar Biscuits
These buttery biscuits are infused with the earthy flavor of sage and the tanginess of cheddar, making them perfect for accompanying soups, stews, or as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicious and aromatic treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in grated cheddar cheese and chopped sage leaves.
4. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick rounds. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each biscuit.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sage and Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet and savory, these carrots are the perfect side dish to elevate your meals. This recipe combines the earthy flavor of sage with the warmth of honey for a deliciously balanced taste.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrot slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle honey over the carrots, then sprinkle chopped sage leaves evenly.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fresh Sage and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of comforting flavors, featuring tender white beans and fragrant fresh sage. Serve it as a starter or a main course, garnished with crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked and drained navy beans, vegetable broth, chopped sage, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crusty bread and extra fresh sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Sage and Rosemary Focaccia
Elevate your bread game with this flavorful focaccia infused with the aromatic goodness of sage and rosemary. Perfect for a rustic dinner or as a snack, this recipe yields a deliciously soft and herbaceous flatbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, rosemary, sage, and garlic to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
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).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle. Dimple with your fingers.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sage Butter Roasted Turkey Breast
Sage Butter Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe
Elevate your holiday meal with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, perfect for a smaller gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) turkey breast
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, chopped sage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the sage butter evenly over the turkey breast, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Roast the turkey breast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sage and Walnut Pesto
Elevate your pasta dishes with this unique and flavorful combination of sage and walnuts. This pesto is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a sophisticated addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup toasted walnuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine sage leaves, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Process until the mixture is well combined.
2. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top. Continue processing until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Lemon Sage Roasted Potatoes
Brighten up your meal with these flavorful roasted potatoes infused with the zest of lemon and the earthiness of sage.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped sage
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, sage, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sage and Balsamic Grilled Vegetables
Elevate your summer grilling game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the earthy taste of sage with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp chopped fresh sage leaves
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or minced garlic for added depth
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped sage leaves, and a pinch of salt.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the vegetables.
4. Grill the vegetables for 3-5 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the balsamic glaze onto the vegetables.
6. Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sage and Thyme Roasted Chicken Thighs
A classic combination of herbs and spices elevates this roasted chicken dish to new heights, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried sage
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the herb mixture evenly over the top of each thigh.
4. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of fresh sage with these 18 mouthwatering recipes, perfect for every season. From pasta dishes like Brown Butter Sage Pasta to savory roasted meats like Sage and Garlic Roasted Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Savor the flavors of herbs and cheese with Fresh Sage and Lemon Roasted Salmon or Sage Infused Olive Oil. Try new twists on old favorites, such as Sage and Apple Stuffed Pork Chops or Creamy Sage and Mushroom Risotto. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for inspiration, these recipes are sure to delight.