It’s that time of year: Easter is just around the corner, and with it comes all the joy of spring’s most delicious offerings. Carrot cake is back, asparagus and arugula are making their seasonal return, and al fresco dining is officially in full swing. And while planning an Easter menu can feel a little overwhelming, these vegan Easter recipes make it easy to put together a spread that feels festive, fresh, and full of flavor.

Whether you’re fully plant-based or simply looking to add more vegetables to your holiday table, these vegan Easter recipes are true standouts. They bring just as much beauty and joy to the celebration as Easter itself, proving that a meal centered around produce can still feel special, abundant, and completely satisfying.

20 Vegan Easter Recipes to Brighten Up Your Table

Traditions vary, but my family typically gathers for Easter in the mid-afternoon. It gives the morning a slower, more relaxed pace and leaves just enough time between lunch and dinner to “rest your eyes,” as my dad would say. There’s no rush to pull together a full brunch situation, and you can graze your way through the afternoon and into the evening. It really is the best of both worlds! That said, more power to the brunch people—there’s nothing like a beautiful spring table in the early afternoon to brighten the day and spark a little extra joy.

And here’s the best part: every recipe on this list works beautifully no matter how you celebrate. From vegan Easter brunch ideas and seasonal side dishes to crowd-pleasing mains, cocktails, and desserts, these vegan Easter recipes make it easy to build a menu everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a fully plant-based gathering or simply adding a few fresh spring dishes to the table, these recipes are festive, flavorful, and perfect for celebrating the season.

This post was last updated on March 31, 2026, to include new insights.

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Certain small rituals shape how your home feels, and lighting a candle is one of them. It’s something I reach for almost without thinking, but I notice the shift right away. The right scent can make a space feel calmer, more grounded, a little more like somewhere you actually want to be.

But not all candles are created with that same intention. Many are made with ingredients you wouldn’t choose if you knew what was in them. And if it’s something you’re lighting regularly, that matters.

A candle should elevate your space—not compromise it.

What Is a Non-Toxic Candle?

Not all candles are created with the same level of care. Many contain ingredients like paraffin wax (a petroleum byproduct) and synthetic fragrances that can release unwanted chemicals into your space.

Non-toxic candles take a different approach. They’re made with cleaner-burning waxes—like soy, beeswax, or coconut—and use more thoughtful fragrance sources, so what you’re lighting actually aligns with the environment you’re trying to create.

How to Find the Best Non-Toxic Candles

If you’re trying to choose a better candle, a few details make all the difference. Start with the wax. Soy, beeswax, and coconut wax tend to burn cleaner than paraffin, which is derived from petroleum.

Next, look at fragrance. Candles scented with essential oils or botanical blends are generally a better option than those made with synthetic fragrance, which can contain phthalates. And don’t overlook the wick—opt for paper or 100% cotton, which burn more cleanly than metal-core alternatives.

How to Spot Greenwashing

“Clean” and “non-toxic” are everywhere in candle marketing, but they’re not regulated terms, meaning they don’t always mean much.

The easiest way to cut through it is to look for transparency. Turn the candle over, check the ingredient list, and see what the brand is actually telling you. If that information is hard to find—or overly vague—that’s worth noting.

It’s also important to look beyond the packaging. A minimalist label or elevated design can make a candle feel clean, but aesthetics don’t guarantee better ingredients. The brands worth buying from are the ones that are clear about what they use, how they source it, and why it matters.

We know this can feel like a lot to sort through—but it doesn’t have to be. Ahead, the non-toxic candles we actually reach for: clean-burning, beautifully scented, and worth lighting every day.

The Best Non-Toxic Candles to Shop Right Now

If you’re looking for a candle that feels as good as it smells, start here. These are the ones we reach for on repeat—clean-burning, well-balanced, and worth lighting every day.

Best Overall Non-Toxic Candle

Casa Zuma Daybreak Candle

If you’re buying one candle this season, make it this one. Casa Zuma’s Daybreak strikes that rare balance of feeling elevated and effortless—clean-burning, beautifully layered, and subtle enough to light every day without overwhelming a space. It’s the kind of scent that makes your home feel instantly more considered, without trying too hard.

• Scent notes: warm citrus, soft woods, sunlit greens
• Wax: clean-burning (coconut/soy blend)
• Why we love it: an everyday candle that still feels special

Fresh & Green

For when you want your space to feel light, clean, and a little more alive—these scents lean into herbs, citrus, and just-cut stems.

Editor’s Pick

Maison Louis Marie Liane de Tomate Candle

“I don’t say this lightly—this is the candle I’ve been telling everyone about. It’s fresh, green, and just unexpected enough to stand out from the usual florals and woods. It’s the one I keep coming back to, and the one I’ve started gifting on repeat.” – Isabelle Eyman, Editorial Strategist

• Scent notes: tomato leaf, citrus, green herbs
• Wax: soy blend
• Why I love it: unique, fresh, and instantly mood-shifting

This post was last updated on April 16, 2026, to include new insights.

The post Most Candles Aren’t as Clean as You Think—Here’s What to Buy Instead appeared first on Camille Styles.

It’s time to celebrate the ladies who get it done. Mother’s Day is the best because it’s about the women who raised us, the sisters in arms who are raising us now, and of course, you and me. (Tip to avoid unmet expectations: Spend the day doing what your fam thinks you want to do, then take yourself on a solo date the next day to do what you actually want to do. Works every time.)

With so many people to celebrate, I’m always tracking affordable Mother’s Day gifts that still feel thoughtful. My Notes app is basically a running list of ideas, constantly updated throughout the year when I spot something someone I love would appreciate. I’ve dropped some of those gold-mine finds here, alongside a few current faves from the mommas on our team. 

28 Affordable Mother’s Day Gifts Under $50 for Every Type of Mom

Whether you’re shopping for your mom, your sister, your friend, or yourself (because yes, solo date = solo shopping), you’ll find something here worth gifting. Let’s unpack it—the best affordable Mother’s Day gifts under $50 are here.

For Her Home

Gifting for the home can be tricky—it can easily veer into “here’s something to help you do more chores.” And if there’s one thing moms don’t need, it’s another reminder of everything on their plate (though, to be fair, there are caveats—I freakin’ love the blender I got last year).

The key is choosing pieces she’ll use often and enjoy every time she reaches for them. Think: a handmade mug that feels special in her hands, the cutest citrus squeezer she’ll actually leave on the counter, or a set of bowls destined for nightly ice cream. These are joy gifts: functional, but never just functional.

To Snack and Sip

When it comes to edible gifts, going budget-friendly just means getting a little creative. I love a high-low pairing, for example. A good bottle of white wine with her favorite movie theater candy. Or, try something elevated paired with something equally thoughtful—like Alison Roman’s pasta sauce with bronze-cut pasta in the fancy bag. It’s simple, a little indulgent, and guaranteed to be used (and enjoyed) immediately.

For a Moment to Herself

There’s a phase of motherhood when facemasks start collecting dust—little reminders of a time that once was. Instead, I like to give wellness gifts that she can incorporate into her daily routine, so she can enjoy some deep breaths even in the midst of the chaos. A weighted eye mask she can slip on at the end of the day. A bath soak for Sunday nights. A journal that doesn’t require a 5 a.m. wake-up call. These are small ways to build in a moment of pause, even when life feels full.

For the Beauty Queen

Our team tests a lot of products, and these are the ones that consistently make the cut. A mix of current favorites and longtime staples, each one earns its place in her routine—easy, effective, and a little bit luxurious.

For Her Playful Side

One of the best affordable Mother’s Day gifts is something that taps into what she loves right now. A puzzle that’s almost too pretty to put away. A book for the aspiring birdwatcher (we all know one). The water bottle that replaces all others. A cookbook for the baker who treats every recipe like an occasion. Because sometimes the best gift is the one that reminds her she’s more than just “mom.”

This post was last updated on April 24, 2026, to include new insights.

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pring has a way of making you want to cook again. The farmer’s market is suddenly worth the trip, the produce drawer is full of things that are actually exciting, and dinner feels less like a chore and more like an occasion.

Pasta is our answer to all of it. Light, fresh, and endlessly adaptable, it’s the perfect vehicle for spring’s best offerings: asparagus, artichokes, peas, broccolini, arugula, mint. These aren’t the heavy, wintery pasta dishes you’ve been leaning on since October. These are bright, fast, and built for open windows and longer evenings.

9 Spring Pasta Recipes Worth Adding to Your Rotation

Consider this your permission slip to eat pasta all season long.

This post was last updated on May 9, 2026, to include new insights.

The post The Spring Pasta Recipes That Prove Warmer Weather Makes Everything Taste Better appeared first on Camille Styles.

There are few things more satisfying than a one-vessel recipe. If you’re telling me I can make brownies in one bowl, I’m so in. A one-pot pasta that’s ready in the time it takes the water to boil? This is my heaven. But my forever favorite is the easy sheet pan dinner—minimal effort, maximum reward, and cleanup that means I’m lifting nary a finger.

11 Easy Sheet Pan Recipes for Busy Nights

But not all sheet pan recipes make the cut. Important considerations come into play so that I’m not serving a pan of overcooked (or undercooked) foods, all seasoned the same. There must still be the perfect mix of textures, flavor, and color to create a satisfying sheet pan meal.

I’m proud to report that the following collection hits all the right notes, beginning with an all-time fave—a repeater in my house. So grab your parchment and line those pans, we’ve got an easy night ahead.

This post was last updated on April 13, 2026, to include new insights.

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There’s this moment that happens every April when the first truly in-season strawberries show up at the market: I take a bite, and that feeling of spring floods my system. It’s when the pale, flavorless berries that have traveled for a week are replaced by the deep, red, juicy ones that fill the kitchen with the scent of sunshine. That moment is what inspired this strawberry galette—it channels all those feelings and wraps them up into the most gorgeous (and simple) dessert.

I’ve been making some version of this recipe for years, changing up the fruit based on what’s in season (see this pear galette or this insane heirloom tomato & burrata galette). For this one, seize the window of about six weeks when the strawberries are this good and lean into how effortless this preparation is. It’s about 20 minutes of actual effort, then an hour for cooking and cooling.

A Simpler Way to Bake a Pie

Here’s the thing about galettes: they’re all the reward of a homemade pie with none of the intimidation. There’s no perfectly crimped edge, no blind baking, and no anxiety about lattice. You fold the dough over the filling, press it down, and the rustic, imperfect edges are the whole point. You really want to embrace that organic, wabi-sabi vibe here.

This might be divisive, but I use frozen pie crust for this. Because here’s the thing—a good frozen crust (Dufour is my pick if you can find it, or Trader Joe’s all-butter crust in a pinch) is genuinely delicious, and life is short. If you want to make your own, absolutely go for it. But don’t let the idea of making pastry from scratch stop you from making this.

The Layer That Makes It Special

Before the strawberries go on, spread a layer of whipped cream cheese across the center of the dough. It creates a creamy, slightly tangy barrier between the pastry and the fruit—soaking up some of the juice while the galette bakes and transforms into something that’s not quite cheesecake, not quite custard, but completely incredible. If your cream cheese isn’t already at room temp, ten seconds in the microwave gets it there.

The strawberries themselves get tossed with granulated sugar, lemon zest, a little cornstarch (this is what keeps things jammy rather than soupy), and a pinch of salt before being mounded over the cream cheese. Then comes the fold: start folding the dough over the berries, pleating as you go. There’s no wrong way to do this, so relax and have fun with it. Brush the crust with egg wash, press sliced almonds into the dough (toss them with a little extra egg wash first, so they actually stay), and finish with a generous sprinkle of turbinado sugar for crunch. The thyme is optional, but I love it here—something about that herby, floral note with the sweet strawberries feels very spring garden-to-table.

How to Serve This Strawberry Galette

Bake until the crust is golden and the strawberries are bubbling and jammy, about 25 minutes. Some juice will leak out onto the parchment—this is totally normal and actually looks beautiful. Then the hard part: you have to let it cool on a rack for a full hour before you cut into it so the filling can set. Serve it slightly warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of softly whipped cream. I’ve also had it for breakfast the next morning with coffee (highly recommend).

This is spring in dessert form—the kind of recipe that makes you remember why you love cooking in the first place. Simple ingredients, seasonal fruit, and something that looks so beautiful without trying too hard. Scroll on for the recipe, and drop a comment if you make this one!

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April is when things start to shift into place. The goals you started in January are beginning to feel more like second nature: your routines feel easier, your go-to outfits more defined, and the small upgrades start to make a real difference in how your days unfold. It’s less about overhauling and more about refining—keeping what works, elevating what doesn’t, and leaning into the rituals that make you feel your best. Think effortless staples, mood-boosting essentials, and everyday pieces that pull it all together.

What Our Readers Are Reaching for This Month

This month’s most-loved picks lean into that easy, dialed-in feeling. From wellness staples and skin-forward beauty to elevated basics, home upgrades, and something to sip on as the evenings stretch a little longer—it’s a lineup that fits seamlessly into your routine.

These are the pieces our readers are shopping on repeat this month, the ones that feel current without trying too hard. Consider this your April edit: a mix of tried-and-true favorites and under-the-radar finds, straight from the Camille Styles community.

RoC Skincare

A longtime favorite for results-driven formulas, RoC is having a moment again with our readers—especially for its easy, targeted treatments. The brand’s firming serum stick and under-eye balm have been popping up everywhere for how seamlessly they fit into daily routines, delivering that refreshed, well-rested look with minimal effort. It’s the kind of skincare that works hard but feels simple.

J.Crew

A warm-weather staple our readers come back to year after year: a trusty pair of linen pants. These from J.Crew are lightweight and breathable with a relaxed, flattering fit that works just as well for travel days as it does for dinner plans. It’s the kind of piece that instantly makes getting dressed feel easier—and a little more put-together.

Ka’Chava

Ka’Chava is our readers’ go-to when they’re looking to simplify their wellness routines without sacrificing intention. Known for its nutrient-rich superblend shakes (we’re loving the chocolate and matcha), it’s an easy addition to your morning rituals.

Nordstrom

Nordstrom is one of those brands our readers come back to year-round. From easy dresses and breezy sandals to a bag that somehow works with everything, it’s full of pieces that make getting dressed effortless. Staples you reach for again and again, no matter the season.

U Beauty

Our readers love U Beauty for the brand’s streamlined, results-driven approach to skincare. Known for its multitasking formulas, U Beauty focuses on doing more with less—delivering visible results while simplifying your routine. Bonus: it’s elevated, efficient, and so easy to stick with.

AYR

AYR continues to be a favorite for its perfectly executed wardrobe staples that feel anything but basic. (CBK would love.) The brand leans into timeless silhouettes with just the right amount of structure and ease. It’s the kind of clothing you build an entire outfit around.

Evereve

Everyone in the Camille Styles community is leaning into EVEREVE for spring wardrobe must-haves. It hits that sweet spot of feeling current without being overdone.

True Botanicals

A forever favorite for a reason, True Botanicals is an essential for when you want your skincare to just work. (Trust me: it’s a big ask.) It fits seamlessly into a routine that’s already in place—supporting that healthy, lit-from-within glow without overcomplicating things.

Ritual

Ritual is exactly that: simple, consistent, and easy to keep up with. Whatever the time of day, it’s one of those small rituals that makes a difference. My favorite part? No overthinking required—Ritual is a be all, end all brand of supplements.

Olaplex

Your hair is begging for a reset—and you want a product that actually gets the job done. Enter: Olaplex. It’s less about a one-time fix and more about bringing your hair back to a place that feels healthy, soft, and easy again. Especially this time of year, it’s a go-to for getting back to that effortless, low-maintenance feel.

Ruggable

Ruggable is a reader favorite for making home updates feel both elevated and practical, especially this time of year. It’s one of those updates that makes a room feel instantly lighter and more put-together, without requiring a full overhaul. Say it with me: we all deserve a washable rug (or three).

gisou

Gisou has been in heavy rotation lately, especially for that soft, glossy finish we all crave. It’s the kind of brand you reach for when you want everything to look a little more glowy. Nothing complicated, just that extra touch that pulls everything together.

Electric Picks

Electric Picks is that girl: jewelry that’s effortless but still dynamic. Mini Bentley earrings or a Bennett bracelet are the kind of small touches that make getting dressed feel fun again, without trying too hard. These are pieces you’ll reach for and never want to take off.

The post The Spring Edit: What Readers Are Loving Right Now appeared first on Camille Styles.

There’s a dinner move I’ve been perfecting lately: put something delicious on the grill, pour a glass of rosé, and do absolutely nothing for the next 10 minutes while dinner takes care of itself. Cedar plank halibut is that dinner.

We’ve definitely entered our grilling era lately—partly because the weather’s been beautiful and we’ve been spending every possible evening outside, and partly because I’ve been obsessed with planning our outdoor kitchen at the beach house. We’re building something that feels like it will change how we cook and entertain as a family, and all that planning has me thinking about the kind of food I want to make out there. Dishes that feel seasonal and special, but don’t require me to be tethered to the stove. Meals that look (and taste!) impressive but are mostly just good ingredients doing their thing. Case in point: this grilled halibut, cooked simply on a cedar plank.

What Makes Cedar Plank-Grilled Halibut So Good

Here’s the thing about cedar plank cooking: it sounds more technical than it is. Soak a plank, heat your grill, and let the fish cook on the wood while the lid stays closed. What you get is a subtle smokiness that infuses the fish from underneath—not overwhelming, but present—plus fish that stays impossibly tender because the plank acts like a buffer between the direct heat and your halibut. No flipping, no risk of the fish falling through the grates. It’s a technique that does a lot of the heavy lifting for you.

The Salsa Verde That Brings It All Together

This salsa verde is one of those things I’ve started making in big batches and putting on everything. When friends taste it, their eyes get big, and they’re like—what is this magic? Parsley, cilantro, mint, jalapeño, capers, lemon juice, and a good amount of olive oil. Pulse it all together, and what comes out is this punchy, herby, slightly briny sauce that elevates whatever it touches.

I’ve drizzled it over roasted vegetables, stirred it into grain bowls, and spooned it over a fried egg. On this halibut, it’s especially good because the richness of the fish and the smoke of the cedar need something bright and assertive to balance them out. This salsa verde does exactly that.

Why Cara Cara Oranges Work So Well Here

The cara cara oranges are the finishing touch that pulls the whole thing together. I’ve been loving cara caras lately (we’re also planning a citrus grove for the beach house, so orange and lemon recipes have been very much on the brain). They’re sweeter and less acidic than a regular navel, with this gorgeous blush-pink flesh, and when you tuck segments around the fish right before serving, it adds a sweetness that you’d otherwise need a whole separate sauce to achieve. It’s one of those combinations that sounds a little unexpected and then makes complete sense the moment it’s on your fork.

How to Make Grilled Halibut (Tips Before You Start)

The full method is in the recipe card below, but a few things worth knowing before you start:

• Give the cedar plank a solid hour-plus soak in water—longer is fine, shorter is not. This is the step people skip and then wonder why their plank caught fire. (Truly: plan ahead on this one.)
• Let the fish come to room temp for 15-20 minutes before it goes on the grill. Season it generously. Halibut is mild, which is what makes it great, but it needs salt to really come alive.
• Once it’s assembled on a platter—fish, salsa dripping down the sides, orange segments tucked around, torn herbs, flaky salt—it genuinely looks like something you’d order at a nice restaurant. Which is the whole point. A simple green salad on the side and you’re done.

This one is already on my list for one of the first dinners I’ll make in our outdoor kitchen, and I have a feeling it’s going to become a summer regular.

A Few Notes Before You Make It

If you can’t find cara cara oranges, blood oranges are stunning here, and navel oranges work too. You’ll lose a little of the color drama, but the flavor combination is still really good. The salsa verde keeps in the fridge for a few days and gets better as it sits, so make extra. And if grilling isn’t an option, you can absolutely roast the halibut in a 400°F oven—the salsa does so much of the work that the dish holds up either way.

I’d love to hear from you guys if you try this one!

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In putting together this list of the best-ever summer appetizers, two key guardrails guided my selections. The dishes that made the cut had to 1) reflect the season’s vibrant hues and 2) be filled with fresh summer flavor. I’m talking herby dips, crisp, crunchy, and colorful salads, and light but satisfying finger foods that are perfect for warm-weather hosting.

Of course, I’m all about easy prep and make-ahead recipes, too. Whether you’re planning a backyard dinner party, a casual happy hour, or a laid-back al fresco meal, the best summer appetizers should feel effortless, seasonal, and special. Essentially, the following 10 picks had to be nothing short of perfection—and delicious perfection they definitely are.

10 Summer Appetizers for Easy Entertaining

These summer appetizers are just the thing to whet your palate before the main course is served. Of course, I wouldn’t blame you if you fill up on these bites and delights. They’re that good.

This post was last updated on May 20, 2026, to include new insights.

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Sometimes I wish I were the kind of person who could just grab a bite to eat without feeling a little high-maintenance. A night out would definitely be simpler if I didn’t have to ask about gluten-free options or meatless swaps on the menu. But after years of trial, error, and paying close attention to how different foods make me feel, I’ve learned what helps my body feel its best. More often than not, that looks like meals built around low-carb, high-protein vegetarian recipes.

And while there are far more options now than there used to be, I still prefer cooking at home and finding recipes that support my nutritional goals while actually tasting good, too. That balance can be surprisingly tricky to strike. So if you’re looking for satisfying vegetarian meals that are rich in protein, lower in carbs, and full of flavor, you’re in the right place.

The Best Vegetarian Protein Sources

Before we roll into the low-carb high-protein vegetarian recipes I found, I wanted to share a cheat sheet with a few of my go-to vegetarian protein sources that might help you on your plant-based eating journey:

Chickpeas: almost 11 grams protein / 35 grams carbohydrates per cup (cooked) 

Paneer (an unaged Indian cheese made from curdled milk and acid): 21 grams protein / 3.5 grams carbohydrates per 3.5 ounce serving

Tofu: 8 grams protein / 3.5 gram carbohydrates per 2 ounce serving 

Black Beans: 19 grams protein / 40 grams carbohydrates per cup (cooked)

Lentils: almost 18 grams of protein / approximately 40 grams carbohydrates per cup (cooked)

Eggs: 6 grams protein / 0.6 grams carbohydrates per egg (cooked)

Tempeh (a fermented soybean product): 34 grams of protein / 13 grams carbohydrates per cup

Halloumi (a brined cheese that originated from Cyprus):  7 grams of protein / 0 grams carbohydrates per one-ounce serving

19 Low-Carb High-Protein Vegetarian Recipes

When I was asked to share my favorite low-carb, high-protein vegetarian recipes, I welcomed the excuse to dig through my personal archive. As a vegetarian, I’ve found that most recipes tend to check only two of the three boxes: they’re low-carb and plant-forward but light on protein, or they’re packed with vegetarian protein sources and also loaded with carbs. As I mentioned, it can be a challenge, albeit a delicious one.

With that in mind, I rounded up the recipes I come back to again and again. Each one is satisfying, flavor-forward, and checks the boxes that matter most: 1) high in protein, 2) low in carbs, and 3) completely vegetarian. From cottage cheese and Greek yogurt to tofu, eggs, and lentils, these are the kinds of ingredients that make vegetarian cooking feel both nourishing and realistic. Let’s get into it.

This post was last updated on April 11, 2026, to include new insights.

The post 19 Vegetarian Recipes That Are Surprisingly High-Protein appeared first on Camille Styles.

Shall we all let out one collective hooray that spring has (semi-officially) sprung? I’ve been driving around town with a big, silly grin on my face—the sight of blooming trees and sprouting daffodils makes me almost giddy. The only thing I love as much as warmer weather is warm-weather recipes, and this roundup of light, fresh, and Easter dessert recipes is the perfect starting point for your Easter menu—or any outdoor family dinner that celebrates al fresco season, even on a Tuesday evening.

16 Easter Desserts That’ll Brighten Up Any Brunch

Few things capture the spirit of the season quite like a table full of beautiful desserts, and these spring sweets are just as delicious as they are gorgeous. Consider yourself warned: spring fever is about to set in.

This post was last updated on March 27, 2026, to include new insights.

The post The Easter Desserts Everyone Will Be Talking About This Year appeared first on Camille Styles.

In my ideal world, I’d have a full vegetable garden—raised beds overflowing with tomatoes, greens, and herbs that I could wander out and snip from while cooking dinner. But right now, I live in an apartment in Portland with very little outdoor space, which means my gardening ambitions have had to get a little more creative.

Luckily, herbs are incredibly forgiving. You don’t need a backyard—or even much space at all—to grow them. A single planter on a balcony, a few pots by the kitchen window, or a small corner of a garden bed can produce more fresh herbs than you’ll know what to do with. And once you start cooking with herbs you’ve grown yourself, it’s hard to go back. A handful of basil tossed into pasta, mint tucked into sparkling water, or dill scattered over roasted vegetables somehow makes everyday meals feel a little more special.

If you’ve been curious about herbs to grow at home, these are five of the easiest to start with—whether you’re planting them in a backyard garden, a patio planter, or a sunny kitchen window.

The Best Herbs to Grow at Home—Even in a Small Space

If you’re starting an herb garden at home, the goal is simple: choose herbs that are easy to grow and that you’ll actually use in your cooking. These five herbs are incredibly versatile, forgiving for beginners, and adaptable whether you’re planting a garden bed, filling a planter, or growing herbs indoors.

Basil

If there’s one herb that makes summer cooking feel complete, it’s basil. It thrives in warm weather and grows quickly, which means you can harvest it often throughout the season.

Best for: Garden beds or sunny outdoor planters

How to use it: Basil is best enjoyed fresh. Think pesto, caprese salads, sandwiches, and pasta tossed with olive oil and tomatoes.

What to make:

• Strawberry Caprese Salad
• Vanilla Panna Cotta with Strawberries, Basil, & Almonds
• Summer Spaghetti with Tomatoes, Burrata and Basil

Mint

Mint is one of those herbs that almost grows too well. In a garden bed it will happily spread anywhere it can reach, which is why many gardeners prefer growing it in containers. The upside? Once it gets going, you’ll have more mint than you know what to do with.

Best for: Outdoor planters or pots

How to use it: Mint instantly brightens drinks and salads. I love adding it to sparkling water with citrus, tossing it into grain bowls, or using it in sauces like tzatziki.

What to make:

• Lime-y Chicken Tacos with Jicama, Avocado, & Mint
• Grilled Zucchini with Chile Mint Vinaigrette
• Pea Salad with Mint and Microgreens

Rosemary

Rosemary is one of the most resilient herbs you can grow. It’s woody and shrub-like, which means once it’s established it can last for years with very little maintenance.

Best for: Backyard gardens or large outdoor pots

How to use it: Rosemary shines when cooked. Add it to roasted vegetables, marinades, or infuse it into olive oil or honey.

What to make:

• Roasted Cauliflower and White Bean Soup with Rosemary
• Rosemary and Apple Zucchini Bread with Ginger
• Roasted Honeynut Squash with Hot Honey, Pecans, and Rosemary

Cilantro

Cilantro is a little polarizing—some people love it, others think it tastes like soap (it’s not their fault… genetics play a role)—but if you’re in the first camp, it’s one of the most useful herbs to grow at home.

Best for: Small garden beds or outdoor planters

How to use it: Cilantro is best added fresh at the end of cooking. Sprinkle it over tacos, grain bowls, soups, or hummus.

What to make:

• Green Chutney
• Roasted Cauliflower Tacos with Cilantro Pesto
• Sheet Pan Chicken With Japanese Sweet Potatoes & Tahini Drizzle

Dill

Dill feels very spring to me. It’s light, fresh, and pairs beautifully with vegetables, fish, and creamy sauces.

Best for: Garden beds or sunny kitchen windows

How to use it: Chop dill into yogurt sauces, scatter it over roasted potatoes, or add it to salads and seafood dishes.

What to make:

• Roasted Cauliflower Recipe With Garlic Tahini, Chimichurri, and Dill
• Smoked Salmon Breakfast Bowl
• Fennel Salad

How to Grow Herbs at Home (No Matter Your Space)

If you have a garden: Plant herbs along the edges of raised beds or alongside vegetables. Most herbs love full sun and well-draining soil.

If you have a small outdoor space: A single planter can support multiple herbs. Basil, mint, and cilantro are especially happy growing in pots.

If you’re growing herbs indoors: Choose a sunny window and pots with drainage holes. Basil, mint, and dill tend to adapt well to indoor growing.

The Takeaway

Growing herbs at home is one of the easiest ways to bring more freshness into everyday cooking. Even a few small plants can completely change the way you cook—suddenly you’re reaching for fresh basil, snipping mint for drinks, or scattering dill over dinner.

Start with one or two herbs you use most often. Once you see how easy they are to grow, it’s hard not to keep adding more.

This post was last updated on March 21, 2026, to include new insights.

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