Fresh thyme
Description
Fresh thyme has small, gray-green leaves on thin, woody stems; the aroma is intense, herbal, slightly camphoraceous and citrusy, with a distinct, spicy note. It pairs perfectly with meat, poultry, fish, braised vegetables, soups, sauces, and Mediterranean dishes, as well as with lemon, garlic, and olive oil, adding depth and freshness to dishes. Nutritionally, thyme provides vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as manganese and iron, along with flavonoids and essential oils (e.g., thymol) that have antioxidant and mildly antibacterial properties, supporting immunity and digestion. To preserve the aroma, store fresh sprigs wrapped in a damp paper towel in a sealed bag in the refrigerator or place them in water like a bouquet; you can also quickly freeze chopped thyme in oil or dry it.