Fresh Mint: Varieties, Health Benefits and Recipes
Fresh mint is available all year long and grows abundantly in the warm summer months. Mint not only smells great and adds lots of flavor to recipes, but also offers quite a few health benefits worth mentioning. It is widely used in toothpaste, medicines, antibacterials for infections, shampoos and more. It can also be taken to treat an upset stomach or help with heartburn. Scroll through the slideshow to learn more about five varieties of mint, then use it in your own kitchen in some of our delicious recipes.
Orange Mint
This variety of mint is perfect for summer drinks and fruit salads. The citrus flavor is a bright alternative to traditional mint and works well in fresh salads. The oil from orange mint is commonly used in perfumes and soaps for its aromatic properties and is typically available in the summer months.
Mint Recipes
Can’t get enough fresh mint? Check out some of our favorite mint recipes.
Fresh Fruit with Honey-Lime-Mint Dressing
Lamb Chops with Berry Mint Sauce
Green Pea Soup with Fresh Mint
Sources: USDA Library, Bonnie Plants