What to do with too much oregano: Delicious ways to use your abundant herb

So, you’ve got a garden overflowing with fragrant oregano, or perhaps a bulk purchase at the farmer's market has left you with more of this Mediterranean marvel than you know what to do with. Don't let that delicious herb go to waste! Oregano is incredibly versatile, and having a surplus means you can explore its many culinary and even non-culinary applications. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making the most of your abundant oregano.

Preserving Your Bounty: The Key to Long-Term Enjoyment

Before diving into recipes, let’s talk about preservation. Fresh oregano has a limited shelf life, but with a few simple techniques, you can enjoy its flavor for months to come.

Drying Oregano

This is the most common and effective method for preserving oregano. Dried oregano has a more concentrated, pungent flavor than fresh.

Air Drying: Gather small bunches of oregano stems. Tie the ends together with string or a rubber band. Hang them upside down in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. This can take 1-3 weeks. Once the leaves are brittle and crumble easily, they are ready.
Oven Drying: If you're in a hurry, you can use your oven. Spread the oregano sprigs on a baking sheet. Set your oven to its lowest temperature (ideally 150-180°F or 65-80°C). Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Check frequently, and remove the leaves when they are dry and crumbly, usually within 1-2 hours.
Dehydrator: A food dehydrator is another excellent option. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying herbs. This usually involves spreading the oregano on trays and setting the temperature to around 95-115°F (35-45°C) until dry.

Once dried, strip the leaves from the stems and store them in airtight containers (like glass jars) in a cool, dark place. You can store them whole or crumble them before storing.

Freezing Oregano

Freezing preserves more of the fresh, bright flavor of oregano, though the texture will change. This is great for recipes where the fresh flavor is paramount.

Whole Leaves: Wash and thoroughly dry the oregano. Spread the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen leaves to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Chopped in Oil: Chop the fresh oregano finely. Mix it with a neutral oil (like olive oil or vegetable oil) to form a paste. Spoon this mixture into ice cube trays and freeze. Once frozen, pop the oregano-oil cubes out and store them in a freezer-safe bag. This is incredibly convenient for sautéing.

Culinary Delights: Cooking with Your Abundant Oregano

Now for the fun part! Here are numerous ways to incorporate your fresh and dried oregano into delicious meals.

Italian and Mediterranean Classics

Oregano is a cornerstone of Italian and Greek cuisine. Don’t shy away from using it generously!

Pizza and Pasta Sauces: Add fresh or dried oregano to your marinara, bolognese, or any tomato-based sauce. It’s essential for that authentic Italian flavor.
Greek Salads: Sprinkle fresh oregano over your Greek salad, feta cheese, olives, and tomatoes for an aromatic lift.
Roasted Vegetables: Toss broccoli, potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers with olive oil, salt, pepper, and plenty of fresh or dried oregano before roasting.
Marinated Meats and Poultry: Oregano is fantastic in marinades for lamb, chicken, pork, and beef. Combine it with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and other herbs.
Focaccia and Bread: Incorporate fresh chopped oregano into your focaccia dough or sprinkle it on top of bread before baking.

Beyond the Classics: Unexpected Uses

Oregano’s robust flavor can enhance many dishes you might not expect.

Soups and Stews: Add a pinch of dried oregano to hearty lentil soups, minestrone, or chicken noodle soup for added depth.
Scrambled Eggs and Omelets: A sprinkle of fresh or dried oregano can elevate your breakfast.
Dips and Spreads: Mix chopped fresh oregano into cream cheese dips, hummus, or Greek yogurt-based dips.
Burgers and Meatloaf: Add finely chopped fresh oregano to your burger patties or meatloaf mixture for a savory boost.
Flavorful Oils and Vinegars: Infuse olive oil or vinegar by adding a few sprigs of fresh oregano to the bottle. Let it sit for a couple of weeks, then strain.
Herb Butters: Soften butter and mix in finely chopped fresh oregano, garlic, and a pinch of salt. This is perfect for grilled bread or steak.

Recipes to Try with Your Abundant Oregano

Here are a few specific ideas to get you started:

Simple Oregano Vinaigrette

Whisk together 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, 1-2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried), salt, and pepper. This is perfect for green salads, grain bowls, or marinating chicken.

Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken and Veggies

Toss chicken pieces (thighs or breasts) and your favorite vegetables (broccoli florets, chopped bell peppers, red onion wedges, cherry tomatoes) with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a generous amount of fresh or dried oregano. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Oregano-Infused Roasted Potatoes

Cut potatoes into wedges. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and plenty of fresh or dried oregano. Roast at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown and crispy.

Beyond the Kitchen: Other Uses for Oregano

Did you know oregano has uses beyond just flavor? Its properties have been recognized for centuries.

Insect Repellent: Some people find that the strong scent of oregano can help deter certain insects. You can steep dried oregano in hot water and use the cooled liquid as a natural spray, or place dried bunches in areas where pests are a problem.
Medicinal Properties: Traditionally, oregano has been used for its potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. While not a substitute for medical advice, some people steep fresh or dried oregano in hot water to make a soothing tea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does dried oregano last?

Properly dried and stored in an airtight container away from light and heat, dried oregano can retain its flavor for 1 to 2 years. However, its potency will gradually decrease over time.

Why is my fresh oregano wilting so quickly?

Fresh herbs like oregano are delicate. They wilt quickly if they lose moisture. Store fresh oregano by wrapping the stems in a damp paper towel and placing it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator, or by placing the stems in a glass of water like a bouquet of flowers, then covering the leaves with a plastic bag.

Can I use dried oregano instead of fresh oregano in recipes?

Yes, you can! A general rule of thumb is to use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for every 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano called for in a recipe. Keep in mind that dried oregano has a more concentrated flavor.

What’s the best way to store fresh oregano for immediate use?

For immediate use, store fresh oregano unwashed in a plastic bag or an airtight container in the refrigerator. If it starts to look a bit sad, you can revive it by placing the stems in a glass of cool water for a few hours.

With so many delicious and practical ways to use it, that abundant oregano in your kitchen will be a welcome ingredient rather than a surplus to worry about. Enjoy experimenting!