Tuscan heat spice blend is a versatile seasoning that adds both herbal, savory, and spicy elements that enhance chicken, soup and pasta recipes.
Recipe can easily be recreated at home and can be tailored to individual spiciness and herb preferences, for instance marjoram can be substituted for oregano to produce a milder taste profile.
Dried Oregano
Dried oregano provides dishes with a robust, savory flavor, adding depth and complexity. It works particularly well when used in Mediterranean or Italian cuisines.
Complement vegetables that feature strong flavors like chili, spaghetti sauce, pizza or zucchini by pairing with olive oil, basil and thyme for optimal results.
Hang drying fresh oregano sprigs is the optimal way to preserve its oils and maintain flavorful aroma. Unfortunately, however, this process takes several weeks until all the herbs have completely dried out.
Dried oregano adds depth and dimension to tomato-based dishes such as marinades or roast vegetables, while being an integral component in creating Tuscan heat spice recipes like this Tuscan heat spice recipe.
Dried Thyme
Thyme is an integral ingredient of Middle Eastern dishes such as zahtar (a blend of sumac, sesame seeds and salt) and dukkah (an Egyptian nut, seed and spice blend). It’s also one of the main components in Jamaican jerk seasoning.
Thyme adds depth of flavor to this Tuscan heat recipe, pairing well with chicken, pork, fish and vegetables – perfect for blackening techniques in Creole cuisine!
If you don’t have access to thyme or oregano, marjoram makes an excellent alternative; its flavors resemble both of these herbs but with less intensity.
Dried Basil
Add fresh and savory notes to dishes by using this essential herb alongside garlic powder and red pepper flakes – it takes your meal from ordinary to extraordinary!
Dried basil can often be found in supermarket spice aisles; for optimal quality assurance it should be purchased from an independent spice shop instead.
When shopping for dried basil, look for whole leaves that are vibrant green in color with an aromatic bouquet. When it comes time to store, place in an airtight container such as glass jar* in order to protect the leaves from moisture damage in your pantry.
Dried Red Pepper Flakes
Red pepper flakes add a zesty element to any meal, from meats grilled on the grill or oven, tossed into pasta sauces, or sprinkled onto pizzas and sandwiches. Red pepper flakes bring bold flavor into every bite you take – and red pepper flakes only elevate that experience further!
Add red pepper flakes to your seafood pasta dishes for a tasty boost, or use them in vegetable stir-fries as an ideal topping! They make great additions!
Be wary when handling any type of dried pepper, particularly red pepper flakes. Always wear protective gloves and be wary not to inhale any pepper flakes while working with them.
Dried Garlic Powder
As its name suggests, Tuscan spice mix adds an authentic Tuscan flare to any recipe. A carefully chosen combination of dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, ground red pepper and garlic powder create a tantalizing array of earthy and piney notes, while adding subtle spice notes for maximum enjoyment!
As opposed to fresh or reconstituted garlic, powdered forms of this spice will not scald or burn dishes and can be added any time without fear of burning your mouth! Granulated varieties have coarser textures that might clump, making this powdered version ideal for recipes requiring even distribution and non-clumping seasoning.
Dried Marjoram
Marjoram is similar to oregano but is sweeter and has a lighter scent. Additionally, its fragrance has more of an herbaceous, floral quality with citrus undertones than its counterpart thyme.
Marjoram is an indispensable ingredient of Italian seasoning blends and an indispensable component in popular marinades, not to mention being used in recipes for meats and vegetables alike.
Make Hello Fresh’s Tuscan heat spice blend recipe at home easily in just four steps! Measure out and combine dried oregano, thyme, basil and garlic powder in a mixing bowl before stirring in red pepper flakes to combine everything evenly.
Dried Rosemary
Dried rosemary adds an aromatic pine-like note that balances out the sharp notes from thyme and basil. Furthermore, its flavor remains even after being cooked; making it ideal for meat dishes.
Garlic powder and crushed red pepper flakes in this recipe add extra heat; but you can easily adjust to suit your personal preferences. This DIY Tuscan Heat Spice Blend makes an amazing alternative to store-bought Italian seasonings; sprinkle it on grilled meats or roast vegetables to elevate simple dishes into gourmet delights!