General Information
Sage is an evergreen herb which is categorized as a member of the mint family. It has oval greyish leaves and woody stems and blue to purplish flowers. Sage has many varieties, most famous of which is known as common sage, which is the one used in recipes. It is native to the Mediterranean region and today it is cultivated all around the world. Although fresh sage leaves are available everywhere, it is very common to find dried sage leaves in supermarkets and they have a much longer shelf life.
Health Benefits
Like many herbal plants, sage leaves have several nutritional benefits. In fact, sage leaves are a good source of vitamin K and vitamin A, fiber, calcium, iron, folate, magnesium, and manganese. Because of these nutrients, regular consumption of sage leaves can be useful in improving memory, lowering blood glucose and bad cholesterol and improve symptoms of menopause.
Delicious Ways to Use Sage Leaves
Sage leaves have a unique flavour that can elevate the taste of many dishes. They are usually combined with other herbs such as thyme, marjoram, and rosemary and they are used in recipes from many European cuisines, most notably Italian dishes. They are paired well with a variety of foods, from meat and seafood to lemon and butter.
Storage
Sage leaves should be stored in an airtight container, in a cool and dark place.
