Fresh sage is a versatile herb with a strong flavor that can be used in a variety of ways to enhance both sweet and savory dishes. Here's how to use up fresh sage before it goes bad:
Methods for Using Fresh Sage
1. Frying Sage
Frying sage mellows its flavor and creates a crispy garnish.
- How to: Heat a thin layer of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sage leaves in a single layer and fry for a few seconds until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel to drain.
- Uses: Crumble fried sage over pasta, risotto, roasted vegetables, or soups for added flavor and texture.
2. Infusing Sauces and Butters
Sage can infuse herbaceousness into sauces and compound butters.
- Sauces: Add fresh sage leaves to simmering sauces like tomato sauce or cream sauce. Remove the leaves before serving.
- Compound Butters: Combine softened butter with finely chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Roll into a log and chill. Use on grilled meats, vegetables, or bread.
3. Marinating Meats
Sage is a great addition to meat marinades.
- How to: Combine chopped sage with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and other herbs and spices. Marinate meat for at least 30 minutes (or longer for more flavor) before cooking.
- Examples: Pork, chicken, and turkey pair especially well with sage.
4. Baking with Sage
Incorporate sage into pastries and breads for a unique flavor profile.
- Pastries: Add finely chopped sage to savory scones, biscuits, or quick breads.
- Breads: Mix chopped sage into bread dough for a flavorful loaf.
5. Beverages
Add fresh sage leaves to cocktails and teas for an instant herbal flavor boost.
- Cocktails: Muddle sage leaves with other ingredients in cocktails like gin and tonics or margaritas.
- Teas: Steep fresh sage leaves in hot water for a soothing herbal tea.
6. Other Ideas
- Sage Pesto: Blend sage with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a flavorful pesto.
- Sage Salt: Combine dried sage leaves with sea salt in a food processor for a flavorful seasoning.
- Stuffing: Sage is a classic ingredient in stuffing for poultry.
By using these methods, you can creatively and effectively use up fresh sage, adding a unique and delicious flavor to your dishes and drinks.
