6 Spice Rack Staples Every Kitchen Should Have

A good chef is always well prepared. Look through your spice rack and make sure you’re stocked up and ready to whip up a meal without having to rush to the store. Here are our top six spices that should be in every collection, in no particular order.

1. Rosemary

Dried rosemary is a fragrant spice with hints of pine. It’s often used to make delicious roasted meats and vegetable dishes. Recipe to try with rosemary:

White Bean, Rosemary, & Sausage Soup

2. Sage

Sage is the perfect addition to roasted meats as well. The aroma of sage alone is reminiscent of comfort food. It’s also used in stuffings, cheese dishes and bread recipes. Recipe to try with sage:

Sweet Potato Stuffing

3. Oregano

Oregano is a staple in Italian dishes. Surprisingly, dried oregano is usually preferred over fresh because it retains its flavor better. Oregano pairs well with pasta and tomato dishes, as well as spicy foods. Recipe to try with oregano: 

Greek Chicken Salad

4. Cumin

Cumin has a distinctive, exotic flavor. It’s often used for chilies, stews, marinades and sauces. Recipe to try with cumin: 

Indian Lentil Stew

5. Parsley

Parsley is widely used in a number of dishes. It can be found in soups, vegetable dishes, pastas and meatballs. Recipe to try with parsley:

Shrimp & Sausage Foil Packets

6. Black Pepper

Black pepper comes in many forms, including whole, cracked and ground. Its sharp and distinctive flavor adds a kick to any dish. Recipe to try with black pepper:

Deviled Eggs with Caviar