Herbs – Wild Greek Oregano Buds 15 g.

When it comes to medicinal herbs, wild oregano is king. Oregano has been used for its medicinal values for thousands of years. Zesty, peppery and lemony, wild oregano is rich in a long list of minerals that includes calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, copper, boron, and manganese. Vitamins C and A (beta carotene) and niacin also are contained in oregano. Combining The King of Greek herbs with extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon results in typical Greek cooking. Our Wild oregano is handpicked from the hill sides of the Messenia region of Greece. Trust us, this is not your every day oregano; it will simply changes the way you cook.

Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds: A Taste of the Mediterranean

At Zoë, we take great pride in the quality of our Wild Greek Oregano Buds, which are handpicked from the rugged hills surrounding our olive orchards in the Peloponnese, Greece. This unique location, rich in biodiversity and known for its Mediterranean climate, provides the ideal environment for growing this exceptional oregano.

Hand Harvesting and Drying Process
Our oregano is carefully harvested by hand to ensure that only the best buds are selected. After picking, the oregano is hung to dry in dark rooms, a traditional process that helps retain the essential oils and nutrients of the plant. This careful drying preserves its robust flavor and potent health benefits.

Crushing and Using Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds
Once dried, the oregano buds are hand-snipped and jarred, keeping their delicate and aromatic nature intact. The beauty of working with the buds is that they retain all their intense flavor until you gently crush them in the palm of your hand remove the small stems before using. The full power of the oregano’s bold, lemony flavor is released, perfect for elevating your dishes.

Health Benefits and Flavor
Zoë Wild Greek Oregano is not only prized for its bright, lemony taste but also for its renowned health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, this oregano is known to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it an excellent addition to your meals for both flavor and wellness.

Pairing Ideas for Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds

Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds are incredibly versatile and can elevate a wide range of dishes with their vibrant, zesty flavor. Here are a few pairing suggestions:

• Greek Salad: Sprinkle over a fresh Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and olives. The oregano adds a bold, aromatic note that complements the briny olives and tangy feta.
• Grilled Meats: Use it as a seasoning for grilled lamb chops, chicken, or pork. Pair with a drizzle of Zoë Greek Herb-Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a true Mediterranean experience.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add Zoë Wild Greek Oregano to your favorite roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or potatoes. It gives a savory depth that balances the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
• Pasta Dishes: Incorporate into your pasta sauces or sprinkle over spaghetti aglio e olio for a fragrant, citrusy twist that enhances the simple garlic and olive oil.
• Marinades: Combine Zoë Wild Greek Oregano with Zoë Extra Virgin Olive Oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt for a fresh and fragrant marinade perfect for grilling or roasting.
• Herb Butter: Mix the crushed oregano with butter and a pinch of Zoë Fleur de Sel to create a deliciously fragrant compound butter. Serve over grilled meats, vegetables, or spread on freshly baked bread.

Whether you’re preparing a simple salad or grilling meats for a feast, Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds will infuse your cooking with authentic Mediterranean flavors and offer the added bonus of their health-boosting properties.

Dakos Salad with Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds & Zoë Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Dakos, a traditional Greek dish from Crete, is a refreshing, simple salad perfect for summer days. This rustic salad features hearty barley rusks, ripe tomatoes, creamy feta, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. By adding Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds and our Zoë Extra Virgin Olive Oil rich in polyphenols, this dish is elevated with vibrant flavor and health benefits.

Ingredients

• 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 4 Cretan barley rusks (or alternative crunchy bread, like whole wheat)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup Zoë Extra Virgin Olive Oil (rich in polyphenols)
• 1 tsp Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds, crushed
• 1 tbsp Zoë Lemon Balsamic Vinegar (optional for a tangy kick)
• Zoë’s Salt and Pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base:
   • Place the barley rusks on a large plate or serving platter. Lightly drizzle them with a bit of Zoë Extra Virgin Olive Oil to soften them. Let them soak for 5-10 minutes so they absorb the oil and become slightly tender but still crunchy.
2. Prepare the Salad Toppings:
   • While the rusks are soaking, chop the tomatoes and place them in a bowl. Add the thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
3. Season the Salad:
   • Drizzle the salad with the remaining Zoë Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Sprinkle over the Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds, and toss gently to combine. Add a touch of Zoë’s Salt and Pepper to taste, and if you like, drizzle with Zoë Lemon Balsamic Vinegar for added tang.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   • Once the rusks are ready, arrange them on a plate. Spoon the prepared tomato and feta mixture over the top, ensuring the rusks are well-covered.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this hearty and refreshing Greek salad!

Why Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds & Zoë Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

The combination of Zoë Wild Greek Oregano Buds and our Zoë Extra Virgin Olive Oil makes this salad more than just a light dish—it’s an explosion of Mediterranean flavors. The wild oregano buds provide a robust, lemony aroma, which pairs beautifully with the fresh tomatoes and tangy feta, while the polyphenol-rich olive oil adds a smooth, rich finish and health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants.

Enjoy this classic Greek salad as a side dish, a light lunch, or an appetizer at your next Mediterranean-inspired meal!