As the world outside settles into the chilly depths of winter, many of us gather in our kitchens creating cozy sanctuaries of warmth and comfort.
What better way to celebrate the season than by letting the array of evergreen herbs breathe vibrancy and freshness into our cold-weather cooking? These perennial garden champions don’t just lend flavour to a dish; they’re packed with health-promoting benefits that are especially soothing during the chillier months.
Evergreen herbs are defined as hardy, perennial plants that retain their green foliage throughout the year. Most evergreen herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, sage, or bay laurel, originated in the Mediterranean and share a love of sun and well-drained soil.
Though they do well outside, evergreen herbs are also amenable to being grown indoors in pots near a sunny window. Unlike their tender annual counterparts, such as basil or cilantro, an evergreen herb’s ability to withstand colder temperatures makes them perfect for winter harvesting, offering a vibrant burst of green colour and a fresh dose of flavour when gardens are otherwise dormant.
Beyond their many nourishing health virtues, evergreen herbs are perfect for celebrating the season’s aesthetics. Their glossy, evergreen leaves bring a pop of living greenery to tables, centerpieces, and plates when most plants lie dormant. Rosemary sprigs woven into wreaths, sage leaves adorning platters of food, thyme garnishing a festive drink—these are the textures, scents, and visuals that elicit joy and comfort.
By embracing evergreen herbs in recipes this season, you’re not just cooking; you’re cultivating wellness, warmth, and a sense of celebration.
This collection was originally published in the December 2025 issue of alive magazine.