Where did oregano come from?

Oregano thrives in warm, mountainous climates, like the Mediterranean. The Greeks believed Aphrodite created the sweet, spicy scent as a symbol of happiness. Oros ganos , a Greek word meaning joy of the mountain, defines the mountainsides of Greece where oregano and marjoram flourish.

Are Mexican and Italian Oregano the same?

They are different herbs. Mexican oregano has citrus and licorice notes, where as Italian or Greek oregano has earthy, more peppery tones. Greek oregano is in the mint family and Mexican oregano is part of the verbena family. Though they are substituted for each other, the truth is they have very different flavor profiles.

Is there a substitute for Italian oregano?

Marjoram is the best substitute and it's also in the mint family.

Lemon Oregano Pesto Sauce (Bright, Herbaceous & Easy 10-Minute Recipe)

Description

Lemon Oregano Pesto is a great way to use fresh oregano you have growing. Love this on fish or chicken or even Italian subs! Simple to make this pesto beats basil any day!

Ingredients

Scale

1/4 c olive oil

2 chopped scallions

1 halved garlic clove

1 T walnuts, toasted or not

1 1/2 t lemon juice

Zest of half a lemon

1/3 c grated Parmesan

1 c of lightly packed Italian parsley

1 c of lightly packed fresh oregano leaves (Remove the leaves from the stem by running your hand backward UP the stem)

Salt, Pepper and red chili flakes to taste

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Instructions

Toss ingredients for pesto in a food processor and process until well combined and pesto-like! If it iss too thick, drizzle in more oil.

Use a blender if you want and puree until smooth. If you like more oil feel free to drizzle more in.

Notes

If you can’t find oregano, you could use cilantro, mint, or basil instead!