10 Best Substitutes for Rosemary in Your Recipes

Rosemary is a beloved herb, known for its earthy, piney flavor that elevates a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a hearty roast, a savory stew, or an aromatic bread, rosemary often finds its way into the recipe. But what happens when you reach for that jar of fresh rosemary or dried rosemary, only to find it empty? Don’t worry! You have plenty of options when it comes to finding a substitute for rosemary. In this blog, we’ll explore the best alternatives, including some unique spice blends from Killer Spice that can bring new dimensions to your cooking.

Thyme: The Versatile Herb

Thyme is one of the most common herbs used as a substitute for rosemary. While it has a more subtle flavor, thyme’s earthy and slightly minty notes can complement many of the same dishes that call for rosemary. Whether you’re seasoning meats, vegetables, or soups, thyme will seamlessly fit into your recipe. Plus, it's widely available and easy to find in both fresh thyme and dried thyme forms.

Killer Tip: Substitute one teaspoon of dried rosemary with one teaspoon of dried thyme or one tablespoon of fresh thyme. This herb's versatility makes it one of the best substitutes for rosemary in Mediterranean dishes and savory recipes.

Sage: The Robust Rosemary Substitute

If you’re looking for a substitute for rosemary that brings a similar robustness to your dishes, sage is a great option. Sage has a slightly peppery taste with hints of eucalyptus, making it a flavorful alternative in recipes like stuffing, roasted meats, and even in rich sauces. Its strong flavor means you should use it sparingly to avoid overpowering your dish

Killer Tips: 

• Use half the amount of sage compared to rosemary when substituting, as its flavor can be quite intense.
• If you’re in the mood to experiment, try using Killer Spice’s Killer Lookout blend. With its robust combination of paprika, cumin, and garlic, this blend offers a unique twist, bringing a rich and vibrant flavor profile that pairs well with dishes traditionally seasoned with rosemary.

Oregano: The Mediterranean Flavor

Oregano is another excellent substitute for rosemary, particularly in Mediterranean dishes like pasta sauces, grilled vegetables, and pizzas. While oregano has a more peppery and slightly bitter flavor compared to rosemary’s piney taste, it still adds depth and aroma to your cooking.

Killer Tip: Substitute one teaspoon of dried rosemary with one teaspoon of dried oregano. This versatile herb is perfect for enhancing the flavor of your savory dishes.

Marjoram: The Sweet Herb

Marjoram is closely related to oregano but has a sweeter, more delicate flavor. This herb is an ideal substitute for rosemary when you want a less intense taste, especially in lighter dishes like salads, dressings, and seafood. Marjoram’s subtle sweetness can enhance the natural flavors of your ingredients without overwhelming them.

Killer Tip: Use an equal amount of marjoram as you would rosemary in your recipes. Marjoram is also a great addition to vegetable dishes, providing a mild, sweet flavor.

Basil: The Bright and Fresh Option

Basil, with its bright, sweet, and slightly peppery flavor, is a great substitute for rosemary in Italian and tomato-based dishes. While basil has a distinct taste, it works well in recipes like pasta, pizza, and salads where fresh, vibrant flavors are key.

Killer Tip: Substitute fresh basil leaves for fresh rosemary in a 1:1 ratio. Dried basil can also be used, but you may need to adjust the quantity to taste. Basil's unique flavor makes it an excellent choice for Mediterranean and savory dishes.

Tarragon: The Elegant Herb

Tarragon offers a unique flavor profile with its licorice-like taste and slight bitterness. While it’s not as commonly used as a substitute for rosemary, tarragon can be a sophisticated alternative in recipes like chicken, fish, and egg dishes. It pairs particularly well with cream-based sauces and vinaigrettes.

Killer Tip: Use tarragon sparingly, starting with half the amount of rosemary called for in the recipe, and adjust according to your taste. Tarragon is also a suitable option when seeking a distinct flavor in your culinary creations.

Savory: The Peppery Substitute

Savory, both summer and winter varieties, is an herb with a peppery flavor that makes it a good substitute for rosemary in heartier dishes like stews, roasts, and stuffing. Its bold taste adds depth to your recipes, much like rosemary would, but with a slightly different spice profile.

Killer Tip: Use an equal amount of savory as you would rosemary in your recipes. This herb is perfect for savory dishes where a stronger flavor is desired.

Bay Leaves: An Exquisite Option

Bay leaves offer a subtle, aromatic flavor that can mimic the earthiness of rosemary in soups, stews, and slow-cooked dishes. While they don’t have the same intensity as rosemary, bay leaves add a background note that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Killer Tip: Use one or two bay leaves in place of a sprig of rosemary, and remember to remove the leaves before serving. Bay leaves work well in Mediterranean dishes and vegetable dishes where a mild, aromatic note is needed.

Killer Spice Blends: Unique Substitutes for Rosemary

While individual herbs can replace rosemary in your recipes, sometimes a spice blend offers the perfect solution. Killer Spice’s Killer Sting, Killer Fish, and Killer Taco blends are excellent options for adding depth and complexity to your dishes.

• Killer Sting: With a sweet heat from honey powder, cayenne, habanero, and a mix of garlic, onion, and turmeric, this blend can be a bold alternative to rosemary in marinades and rubs for chicken and pork. It's perfect for adding a unique flavor to savory dishes.
• Killer Taco: Enriched with paprika, hand-harvested salt, and ground coffee, this blend introduces a smoky, robust flavor that can transform your recipes, offering a creative substitute for rosemary.
• Killer Fish: This blend is a great substitute for rosemary, offering its aromatic depth alongside smoky paprika and zesty citrus notes. Perfect for seafood, this blend enhances dishes with a balanced, robust flavor that stands out, making it an excellent choice for grilling, baking, or frying. The addition of rosemary leaf in this blend ensures a familiar yet distinct flavor in your culinary creations.

Killer Tip: Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, depending on the dish you’re preparing.

Rosemary Essential Oil

If you’re in a pinch and can’t find any of the herbs mentioned, a few drops of rosemary essential oil can serve as a concentrated substitute for rosemary in recipes like soups, stews, and marinades. Be cautious, though, as essential oils are potent, and a little goes a long way.

Killer Tip: Add just one or two drops to your dish, taste, and adjust as needed. This is an effective way to introduce rosemary’s robust flavor profile without using fresh or dried rosemary.

Conclusion

Running out of rosemary doesn’t mean your dish has to suffer. With so many herbs and spice blends available, you can easily find a substitute for rosemary that complements your recipe and might even introduce a new flavor twist. Whether you opt for thyme, sage, or one of Killer Spice’s unique blends like Killer Taco, Killer Fish, and Killer Sting, your culinary creations are sure to impress. So, the next time you’re in the kitchen and realize you’re out of rosemary, remember these versatile and flavorful alternatives.

At Killer Spice, we’re all about exploring new flavors and enhancing your cooking experience. Try out our spice blends and discover how they can become your go-to substitutes for rosemary and other herbs in your favorite recipes.