Minty fresh - five ways to utilise the ice-cool herb

Nothing cleanses the palate like a mint leaf and it’s this burst of coolness that’s made it such a popular garnish. It’s the natural menthol found in its leaves that gives mint its distinctive cool, fresh and sweet flavour. However, there’s more to mint than just placing a sprig on top of your chocolate dessert, or popping a leaf in your lemonade; this lush green herb is as versatile as it is refreshing. Here are five ways to best use your fresh mint.

Mint tea

Few hot drinks can match mint tea for its soothing abilities. Each sip of menthol-infused hot water will wash your stress away, reduce anxiety and even boost your immune system. A cup of mint tea contains 10% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin A, almost a gram of fibre and a decent amount of iron, manganese and folate. Best of all, a fresh cup of mint tea can be brewed in just a few minutes.

Mint, watermelon and feta salad

Lunches can’t get any cooler than a big bowl of watermelon chunks tossed with mint leaves. So invigorating is the fruit/herb combination that sprinkles of feta cheese have to be mixed in to add a calm, soft, salty texture. Easy to prepare, super colourful and totally healthy, few dishes can soothe the soul like a minty-melon salad.

Fresh mint

Yes, fresh mint leaves can be eaten on their own and the benefits aren’t just fresh breath and a cheerful attitude. Mint is a well-known digestif, with the menthol enzymes released from chewing the leaves aiding digestion, relieving indigestion and soothing upset tummies. Just smelling mint’s strong, fresh aroma can help relive headaches, ease symptoms of nausea and reduce stress. It really is one of the most beneficial herbs that you can add to your everyday diet.

Mint chutney

Hugely versatile, mint chutney can happily accompany a hot curry or be served as a Saturday lunch condiment. Smooth, rich and tangy, this chutney can be made from scratch in less than 10 minutes and adding lemon, ginger, or chillies can give it an even bigger kick. Perfect for barbecues, mint chutney can add a cool contrast to almost any main course.

Mint smoothie

Although mint can be added to just about any smoothie, it’s best enjoyed as the number one ingredient. You only need half a cup of mint leaves, a single cucumber and your favourite almond milk to make a delicious, super-hydrating and energising pick-me-up.