As the holiday season has arrived, it’s time to bring the vibrant flavors of your garden or indoor kitchen garden to your festive table. At 16 Acres Garden Center, we believe in the magic of home-grown herbs to transform traditional holiday recipes into extraordinary culinary experiences. Here are four delightful recipes that feature herbs straight from your garden:
1. Rosemary and Thyme Roasted Turkey
Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey
- Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven.
- Rub the turkey with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the cavity with rosemary and thyme sprigs.
- Roast as per the size of your turkey, basting occasionally.
Tip: The rosemary and thyme infuse the meat with a holiday aroma and add a delightful flavor.
2. Lavender and Lemon Balm Tea
Ingredients:
- Fresh lavender buds
- Lemon balm leaves
- Honey or sugar (optional)
- Boiling water
Instructions:
- Combine lavender buds and lemon balm leaves in a teapot.
- Pour boiling water over the herbs.
- Steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain and sweeten with honey or sugar if desired.
Tip: This soothing tea is perfect for relaxing after a holiday meal.
3. Sage and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:
- Potatoes
- Fresh sage leaves
- Garlic cloves
- Butter and cream
Instructions:
- Boil potatoes until tender.
- Mash with minced garlic, butter, cream, and finely chopped sage.
- Season to taste.
Tip: Sage gives a fragrant twist to this classic holiday side dish.
4. Basil and Berry Christmas Trifle
Ingredients:
- Sponge cake or ladyfingers
- Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Whipped cream
- Custard
Instructions:
- Layer sponge cake or ladyfingers in a trifle dish.
- Top with a layer of mixed berries and finely chopped basil.
- Add a layer of whipped cream and custard.
- Repeat layers and garnish with basil leaves.
Tip: The basil adds a refreshing note to the sweet and creamy trifle.
5. Minty Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
- Milk
- Cocoa powder
- Sugar
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
- Heat milk in a saucepan.
- Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar.
- Add a few mint leaves and simmer.
- Strain and serve hot.
Tip: The mint adds a festive twist to this cozy winter drink.
These recipes from 16 Acres Garden Center are not just about tantalizing your taste buds; they’re about bringing the essence of your garden into your home this holiday season. Enjoy the freshness and joy of garden-inspired cooking! 🌿🎄

