5 Things You Never Knew About Herb Summer Savory (And How to Use It Like a Pro)

Introduction: The Unsung Hero of the Spice Rack

If you've ever looked at your spice rack and thought, "What's that little jar of summer savory doing there?", you're not alone. While it might not be as flashy as chili flakes or as fragrant as cinnamon, summer savory is a quiet powerhouse in the world of herbs. In this article, we’ll dive into the quirks, charms, and culinary superpowers of herb summer savory.

1. Summer Savory vs. Winter Savory — What’s the Difference?

You might be wondering if there’s a reason there are two kinds of savory — summer and winter. Spoiler alert: there is! Both belong to the same genus (Satureja), but they have very different personalities.

Characteristic	Summer Savory	Winter Savory
Taste	Mild, sweet-peppery with thyme-like notes	Stronger, piney, more intense
Texture	Tender leaves, delicate stem	Woody, sturdy leaves
Best Used For	Fresh dishes, beans, light meats	Slow cooking, stews, game meats
Harvest Season	Summer	Year-round

2. A Secret Weapon for Bean Dishes

If you’re making beans and legumes — from baked beans to lentil soup — summer savory is your new best friend. It naturally cuts through the heaviness and helps reduce flatulence (yes, science says so!).

• Add to black bean soups for an earthy lift
• Mix into bean salads before serving
• Infuse oils used in hummus or purees

3. How to Grow Your Own Summer Savory

If you’ve got a sunny windowsill or a garden bed, why not grow your own summer savory? It’s low-maintenance and thrives with minimal fuss.

1. Soil: Well-drained soil, slightly sandy is fine
2. Sunlight: At least 6 hours per day
3. Watering: Keep moist but avoid overwatering
4. Harvest: Snip fresh leaves anytime; best flavor before flowering

4. Tasty Tips: Cooking with Summer Savory Like a Chef

Whether you're using fresh or dried, here are some top tips for maximizing the flavor punch of this underrated herb:

• Dried vs. Fresh: Fresh is brighter; dried has deeper, more earthy notes. Use accordingly!
• Cooking Time: Add early in the cooking process to infuse flavors deeply.
• Pairings: Goes great with thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, and garlic.
• Meat Pairings: Especially good with pork, chicken, and lamb.

5. Is There a Substitute for Summer Savory?

Let’s say you’re in the middle of a recipe and realize you don’t have any summer savory on hand. Don’t panic! Here are some alternatives:

• Thyme: Closest in flavor profile, especially lemon thyme
• Marjoram: Slightly sweeter, but still complementary
• Herbes de Provence: A ready-made blend with similar notes
• Poultry Seasoning: Less ideal but works in a pinch

Conclusion: Why Summer Savory Deserves More Love

So next time you reach for that dusty jar of summer savory, remember: it’s not just another herb. It’s a versatile, flavorful, and even healthful addition to your kitchen arsenal. Whether you’re growing it yourself or sprinkling it into your next dish, summer savory adds a unique layer of depth and character that can elevate even the simplest meals.

From its role in reducing gas during bean digestion to its surprising compatibility with seafood and roasted veggies, summer savory is truly a hidden gem. So go ahead — give it the spotlight it deserves.