top of page
  • Writer's pictureJon Mychal Heatherly

Great Pizza Herb from Across the Pond

Updated: Dec 3, 2021

Earthy and peppery

Source: jmheatherly.medium.com

Image by Hans Linde from Pixabay


American veterans brought oregano, or “the Pizza Herb,” from Europe after returning post-WW2. From the Mediterranean region, this mint family member is sometimes called “Wild Marjoram.” Pesto recipe below.


Italian, French, Spanish and Turkish cuisines include oregano. Today, animal husbandry systems incorporate oregano oils into water lines for antimicrobial benefits.


Its flavors can be so intense that it tingles the palette. Some say Aphrodite created its sweet, spicy scent to symbolize happiness. Oregano comes back each year.


Scientific name: Origanum vulgare Tastes: peppery, earthy, bitter, grassy, florals, mint hint Uses: French, Italian, and Turkish cuisine. Season veggies, meat. Folk medicine.


Recipe: Lemon Oregano Pesto

Ingredients: EVOO, scallion, garlic, walnuts, lemon juice, lemon zest, parmesan, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red chili flakes. See link for directions.


By JMHeatherly

11 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All
bottom of page