Fresh mint (leaves)
Description
Fresh mint has an intense, cooling aroma with a noticeable hint of menthol; the leaves are light to dark green, with slightly serrated edges and a velvety texture, making it an attractive visual and flavor addition. Nutritionally, mint is low in calories, providing vitamins A and C as well as trace amounts of minerals such as iron and manganese; the phenolic compounds and menthol it contains exhibit antioxidant properties, aid digestion, and refresh breath. In the kitchen, mint leaves pair well with both sweet and savory dishes — they complement lamb, salads, yogurts, and tzatziki sauces, beverages (cocktails, teas, lemonades), desserts, as well as Asian and Middle Eastern dishes. To maintain freshness, trim the ends of the stems, store in the refrigerator in a glass of water like a bouquet, or wrapped in a damp paper towel in an airtight container; for longer storage, freeze the leaves in ice cubes or keep chopped mint in oil.
