Tasty Dishes with Fresh Oregano

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Elaine Johnson

Cooking with fresh oregano

When you're looking for an intense herbaceous flavor, fresh oregano is a great choice to pair with meats, vegetables, and pasta dishes.

Photo by Leo Gong

Grilled Yellow Squash and Zucchini Pasta Salad

Here's a great way to use summer's abundant squashes. Toasted pine nuts and briny kalamata olives make this salad a standout.

Recipe: Grilled Yellow Squash and Zucchini Pasta Salad

Photo by Iain Bagwell

Orange, Radicchio, and Oregano Salad

The dressing for this salad relies on a smart low-fat cooking technique: Reduce juice to concentrate its sweetness and create a clingy texture, so you don't have to add much oil.

Recipe: Orange, Radicchio, and Oregano Salad

Photo by Annabelle Breakey; written by Elaine Johnson

Meatball Vegetable Soup

Traditionally, this gently seasoned soup, called sopa de albondigas, is made with beef. This lighter version substitues ground turkey for the beef and adds fresh oregano.

Recipe: Meatball Vegetable Soup

Photo by Thomas J. Story; written by Margo True

Charcoal-Grilled Pork Shoulder with Fresh Herbs and Roasted Garlic

Grilling this roast over charcoal is a little complicated, but the results are worth it—the crust is crisper and the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender. You can do the pork on a gas grill instead.

Recipe: Charcoal-Grilled Pork Shoulder with Fresh Herbs and Roasted Garlic

Photo by Iain Bagwell; written by Stephanie Dean, Elaine Johnson, and Amy Machnak

Warm Bacon and Herb Coleslaw

Add a savory twist to the classic summer side dish: a warm bacon dressing.

Recipe: Warm Bacon and Herb Coleslaw

Photo by Thomas J. Story

Grilled Potato Salad

In a lighter take on classic picnic fare, substitute olive oil for mayo. You'll gain Italian flair (and lose 1/2 the calories) with puttanesca-inspired ingredients.

Recipe: Grilled Potato Salad