Herb | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Keto

Mint Leave

Mentha sp. Allergen-Free
Mint Leave

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Lamiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean|Middle Eastern|Southeast Asian
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Mint plant leaves

The Forktionary Angle

"Mint is an incredibly diverse herb, with varieties like spearmint (sweeter, common in cooking) and peppermint (stronger, often used in candies/teas) each offering unique aromatic profiles."

Definition

A fragrant herb known for its refreshing, cooling sensation, widely used in culinary and medicinal applications.

Sensory Profile

TasteFresh, Sweet, Cooling
TextureTender, Slightly fibrous
AromaPungent, Sweet, Mentholic
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Global Usage

Beverages, Desserts, Savory dishes

Optimal Storage

Stem in water, covered, fridge (1 week)

Primary Aromatic Compound

Menthol (peppermint), Carvone (spearmint)

Nutrition Facts

Per 2 g (1 tbsp chopped)
Calories44 kcal
Total Fat0.7 g
Saturated Fat0.2 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein3.3 g
Total Carbohydrate8.4 g
Dietary Fiber6.8 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium243 mg
Iron5.1 mg
Potassium458 mg

Chef’s Secret

Muddle gently to release oils without bruising; excessive force can lead to bitterness.

Substitutions

Best Match

Basil

1:1

Best for fresh applications, offers similar aromatic notes but lacks the strong menthol cooling.

Parsley

1:1

Good for garnishing and adding a fresh, green note, but has a less pronounced flavor.

Tarragon

1:1

Provides an anise-like, fresh flavor, suitable for savory dishes.

Mint Extract

1:4 (extract:fresh)

Concentrated flavor for desserts and drinks, but lacks fresh texture.

Buying Guide

Choose vibrant, unblemished leaves with a strong aroma. Avoid yellowing or wilting.

Flavor Pairings

Lamb chocolate cucumber lime yogurt peas.

Recipes Using Mint Leave

Preparation Occasion Low Cholesterol Low Sodium

Emerald Ecstasy Green Smoothie

Wow your taste buds with the Emerald Ecstasy Green Smoothie! This vibrant, bright green smoothie is a crowd-pleaser, boasting a surprisingly delicious flavor that will leave you wanting more. Developed and perfected for optimal blending in a Vitamix (64 oz. container), this recipe's unique ingredient blend creates a texture and taste sensation unlike any other. Discover the secret to creating this show-stopping smoothie – perfect for your next healthy gathering or as a refreshing treat.

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Time To Make Course Cocktails 15 Minutes Or Less

Agua

Discover the refreshing taste of authentic Agua Fresca! This vibrant drink, inspired by a popular recipe, is incredibly easy to make and perfect for a hot day. Simple ingredients combine to create a delicious beverage that's both hydrating and flavorful. Learn how to make this simple yet delightful drink in just 2 minutes!

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African Salads Dietary 3 Steps Or Less

Algerian Cucumber Salad

A vibrant and refreshing Algerian cucumber salad bursting with fresh herbs and a zesty vinaigrette! Perfect as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer. This quick and easy recipe comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Experience the authentic flavors of Algeria with this delicious and healthy salad.

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Comfort Food Course Time To Make Greek

Alton Brown's Gyro Meat Recipe

Experience the ultimate gyro meat recipe, perfected by Alton Brown! This mouthwatering blend of succulent lamb and savory ground beef is incredibly flavorful and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you prefer the oven-baked meatloaf method or the impressive rotisserie approach, the result is a juicy, tender gyro that's guaranteed to impress. Detailed instructions guide you through each step, ensuring a perfect gyro every time. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

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Taste Mood Appetizers Course Low In Something

Amazing Cream Cheese Spread

Elevate your bagels, toast, and more with this incredibly versatile and flavorful cream cheese spread! Perfect for stuffed chicken breasts, cream cheese roll-ups, or chicken crescent packets – the possibilities are endless! This recipe is easily customizable; try adding fresh herbs like mint for an extra burst of flavor. Whip up a batch today and keep it in your fridge for a quick and delicious snack or meal addition any time!

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Fish Salmon Scandinavian Holiday Event

Andreas Viestad's Honey And Mustard Marinated Salmon With Rosema

Experience Scandinavian culinary magic with this elegant and easy salmon recipe! Inspired by a 2005 Scandinavian cooking site discovery, this dish features honey-mustard marinated salmon baked to perfection and served with tender rosemary apples. A romantic dinner for two, ready in under an hour. Impress your loved ones with this flavorful and sophisticated meal.

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Ramadan Dietary Apples 15 Minutes Or Less

Apple Salad With Pomegranate Molasses

Elevate your fruit salad game with this elegant Apple Salad featuring the rich, complex flavor of pomegranate molasses! Unlike bitter molasses, pomegranate molasses offers a deep, sophisticated taste reminiscent of espresso, adding an unexpected depth to the sweetness of crisp apples. This easy recipe takes just minutes to prepare and is perfect for a light lunch, elegant dessert, or a sophisticated addition to your next brunch spread. Discover a grown-up twist on a classic fruit salad!

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Preparation Pasta Rice And Grains Time To Make Grains

Apricot Couscous

Elevate your weeknight meal with this vibrant Apricot Couscous recipe! Ready in under 30 minutes, this exotic side dish bursts with sweet apricots, crunchy almonds, and fresh herbs. Perfect alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as a vegetarian delight.

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Citrus Time To Make Christmas Salads

Asian Citrus Salad

Brighten your holiday table or any weeknight meal with this vibrant Asian Citrus Salad! Featuring juicy blood oranges (if in season!), grapefruit, and a zesty Asian-inspired dressing, this recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Adapted from Vegetarian Times magazine, this salad is a refreshing and healthy addition to your menu. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Cuisine Easy Dietary Holiday Event

Asian Slaw With Spicy Thai Vinaigrette

Craving a flavor explosion? This Asian slaw, inspired by Joe's Farm Grill in Gilbert, Arizona (featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!), is bursting with vibrant flavors and a spicy kick. This isn't your average slaw – it's a culinary adventure! We've adapted Guy Fieri's recipe to bring you the most amazing, restaurant-quality slaw you can make at home. Get ready for perfectly balanced sweet, sour, and spicy notes in every crunchy bite! Perfect as a side dish for burgers, grilled meats, or even as a light meal on its own.

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Dietary 30 Minutes Or Less Easy Preparation

Asian Turkey Noodle Soup

Transform your Thanksgiving turkey leftovers into a vibrant and flavorful Asian-inspired noodle soup! This quick and easy recipe is packed with fresh herbs, zesty lime, and tender turkey, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch. Get ready for a delicious and exciting culinary adventure!

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Taste Mood Taste Mood Vegan Low Fat

Balsamic Blueberries And Peaches

A sweet and tangy summer dessert recipe, blending the juicy sweetness of Georgia peaches with the tartness of Michigan blueberries and a rich balsamic glaze. This unique twist on a classic fruit dessert is perfect for a light summer treat or elegant brunch addition. Impress your guests with this easy-to-make, yet sophisticated dish – a culinary journey from the Midwest to the South!

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Spring Strawberries Healthy 2 For 1 Or 2

Balsamic Strawberries

Indulge in this light and refreshing Balsamic Strawberries recipe, inspired by the Biggest Loser cookbook! Sweet strawberries meet tangy balsamic vinegar in a delightful dessert that takes just 10 minutes to prepare (plus 30 minutes chilling time). Aged balsamic vinegar elevates this simple dish to gourmet status, perfect for a romantic night in or a healthy treat. Easily scaled for more servings.

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Vegetarian Side Dishes Easy Taste Mood

Batter Fried Squash Blossoms

Crispy, golden-fried squash blossoms bursting with flavor! This easy recipe delivers a delicious appetizer or side dish in just 45 minutes. Perfect for summer entertaining or a special weeknight treat. Learn how to make these irresistible blossoms with our simple, step-by-step guide.

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Main Ingredient Kid Friendly Toddler Friendly Main Ingredient

Beef Pho

Experience the rich, savory depths of authentic Vietnamese Beef Pho! This classic recipe, perfect for beef lovers, delivers a heartwarming and flavorful soup that's worth the time. While the elaborate, slow-simmered broth takes dedication (and is best made a day ahead), the result is a deeply rewarding culinary journey. Fresh herbs and perfectly seared beef elevate this dish to an unforgettable experience. Prepare to be amazed!

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Preparation Preparation Healthy 2 Midwestern

Berry Grapefruit Cup

Start your day with a burst of flavor! This vibrant Berry Grapefruit Cup combines the tartness of grapefruit with the sweetness of cranberries, creating a refreshing and healthy breakfast or brunch dish. Easy to prepare and packed with antioxidants, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious morning meal.

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No Cook Cuisine Eggs Dairy Vegetarian

Carrot Raita

Beat the heat with this refreshing Carrot Raita! A vibrant and flavorful Indian yogurt dip, perfect as a cooling counterpoint to spicy curries or enjoyed on its own. This easy recipe is ready in 15 minutes and bursts with the sweetness of carrots, the tang of lemon, and a delightful crunch.

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Equipment Main Ingredient Dietary Melons

Watermelon Mint Salad

Beat the summer heat with this vibrant Watermelon Mint Salad! Made with fresh mint and juicy watermelon, this delightful recipe is incredibly easy and perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or refreshing dessert. A family favorite, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your summer cooking repertoire. Get ready for a burst of fresh flavor!

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