Oregano

Origanum vulgare Herb

Oregano Herb

At a Glance

  • Category Herb

The Forktionary Angle

"The Zesty Zinger: Aromatic Heart of Mediterranean Dishes"

Definition

A robust, aromatic Mediterranean herb, known for its pungent, slightly bitter, and peppery notes, essential in Italian and Greek cuisines.

Dried vs. Fresh Flavor Dried Often Stronger
Optimal Growth Climate Warm, Sunny
Thymol Content Key Aroma Compound

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Oregano are:

Pungent Earthy Peppery Slightly Bitter Warm

Chef’s Secret

For maximum flavor from dried oregano, rub it between your palms before adding it to your dish to release its essential oils.

Best Substitutes

Marjoram

milder
Ratio 1:1

Thyme

less peppery
Ratio 1:1

Italian Seasoning

blend
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

For fresh, look for vibrant, unblemished leaves. Dried oregano should be fragrant. Store dried in an airtight container away from light.

Recipes Using Oregano

Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Pasta Kid Friendly Seasonal

Baked Garlic Chicken Mozzarella With Pasta Fazoli's Copy

Inspired by a delicious Fazoli's dinner, this recipe elevates classic baked chicken with a cheesy mozzarella topping and perfectly cooked pasta. A family-friendly favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive dinner parties! This recipe, adapted from Taste of Home's 'Country Chicken' cookbook, is bursting with flavor and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for tender, juicy chicken and creamy, comforting pasta in just one hour!

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Savory Cuisine Vegetarian 4 Hours Or Less

Rita's Lasagna

This mouthwatering lasagna recipe is a family favorite, easily adaptable to vegetarian or meat-lover's preferences! Enjoy layers of perfectly cooked pasta, rich sauce, and melty cheese. Get ready for a comforting and delicious meal that everyone will adore.

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American 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation North American

Baked Chicken With Artichokes

Juicy baked chicken infused with the savory flavors of artichokes, mushrooms, and herbs. This easy, 60-minute recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and guaranteed to impress! #bakedchicken #artichokes #chickendinner #easyrecipe #weeknightmeal

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Pasta For 1 Or 2 Italian Taste Mood

Arrabiata Penne

Spice up your weeknight with this fiery Arrabiata Penne! This delightfully simple pasta dish explodes with flavor, thanks to a vibrant tomato sauce infused with a generous kick of chili. The perfect balance of heat and sweetness makes it irresistible. Served with a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, crusty bread, and a glass of your favorite red wine – it's a meal you'll savor every bite of.

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Pasta Rice And Grains Main Dish Soups Stews Beans

Barley And Cannellini Bean Stew

Warm up on chilly evenings with this hearty and flavorful Barley and Cannellini Bean Stew! Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is packed with vegetables and protein. Doubles easily for leftovers or freezing – reheat quickly in the microwave! Serve with crusty bread or a grilled cheese for the ultimate cozy meal. #barley #beans #stew #winterfood #comfortfood #vegetarian #easyrecipe #weeknightdinner

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Main Ingredient Pasta Rice And Grains Low Fat Low Calorie

Beef Barley Stew Soup

Warm up your winter with this hearty Beef Barley Stew Soup! A family favorite, perfect for chilly evenings and guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest college students home for the holidays. This recipe boasts tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of fresh vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth.

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Main Ingredient Easy North American Low In Something

Alberta Prairie Burgers

Experience the taste of the Alberta prairies with these unbelievably juicy burgers! Our secret? Creamy sour cream mixed right into the beef, delivering unparalleled flavor and moisture. This recipe, inspired by Travel Alberta magazine, is a must-try for burger lovers seeking a unique and delicious twist on a classic. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Occasion 4 Hours Or Less Main Dish Chili

All American Chili

Warm up with this hearty and flavorful All-American Chili recipe! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or game-day feast, this chili is packed with savory sausage, tender beef, and kidney beans. Easy to follow instructions guide you to a delicious, crowd-pleasing chili in under 3 hours. Get ready for the ultimate comfort food!

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Marinades And Rubs Low In Something Easy Low Carb

Barbecue Recipes Marinade For Not So Tender Meat

This isn't your grandma's barbecue marinade! Our revamped 1985 patio recipe now magically transforms even the toughest cuts of meat into juicy, flavorful masterpieces. Perfect for grilling, smoking, or slow cooking, this marinade will elevate your BBQ game.

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Preparation Mexican Course Easy

Baked Turkey Enchiladas

Spice up your leftover turkey with these irresistible Baked Turkey Enchiladas! A creamy, cheesy, and subtly spicy twist on a classic, this recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a festive gathering. Easily customize the cheese with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or your favorite blend for an extra kick. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Preparation Main Ingredient Main Dish Holiday Event

Barbacoa

Experience the rich, savory flavors of authentic Mexican Barbacoa with this incredibly close-to-home recipe. Slow-cooked to perfection, this tender and juicy masterpiece is a true culinary journey. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend feast!

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15 Minutes Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Stove Top Pasta

5 Minute Spaghetti Sauce

Craving authentic Italian flavor without the wait? This 5-Minute Speedy Spaghetti Sauce, passed down from an Italian police officer, is your secret weapon for weeknight dinners! Quick, easy, and bursting with deliciousness, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over your favorite pasta and get ready to impress your family with a taste of Italy in under 15 minutes!

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Time To Make Casseroles Equipment Pork

Baked Rigatoni With Kalamata Olives

Indulge in this delightful baked rigatoni recipe! A symphony of savory Italian sausage, juicy tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant basil, all baked to perfection in a creamy mozzarella and parmesan cheese sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish without the fuss. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Chili Preparation Time To Make Main Dish

3 Bean Veggie Chili

This hearty and flavorful 3-Bean Veggie Chili is a family favorite! Packed with protein-rich beans, vibrant veggies, and a zesty tomato base, it's the perfect comforting meal for a chilly evening. Easy to make and even better the next day, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready for deliciousness!

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Easy Salmon Easy Saltwater Fish

Baked Mediterranean Salmon

Escape to the Mediterranean with this vibrant and healthy baked salmon recipe! Flaky salmon fillets are coated in a fragrant herb and lemon mixture, then baked to perfection. This recipe is incredibly versatile – easily substitute fresh tuna for the salmon and enjoy the same delicious flavors. A quick, easy, and impressive weeknight meal!

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Main Ingredient Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Course

Belgian Meatloaf

Inspired by classic Belgian cuisine, this hearty meatloaf recipe delivers a rich, savory experience. Featuring a blend of ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a touch of port and cognac, it's perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable dish!

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4 Hours Or Less Brunch Occasion Breads

Bacon Spinach And Feta Muffin Loaf

This savory Bacon, Spinach & Feta Muffin Loaf is a delicious and satisfying meal or brunch option! Enjoy it as a loaf or easily adapt the recipe to make 12 individual muffins. Crispy bacon, wilted spinach, and salty feta combine for a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for a crowd or a quick weeknight dinner! Bake at 200°C (180°C fan/180°C conventional).

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One Dish Meal Stir Fry Seasonal Healthy

A Feel Good Meal

Banish guilt with this vibrant, low-fat, low-calorie pasta dish! Inspired by a world food adventure, this recipe uses fresh garden herbs and vegetables to create a comforting yet healthy meal. Whole wheat pasta provides extra fiber, while a touch of hot pepper adds a delicious kick. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that's both flavorful and good for you!

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