6 Dishes 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.

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

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

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

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

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

Recipe: Warm Bacon and Herb Coleslaw

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