Oregano is a fragrant herb with small, sturdy leaves that tastes slightly peppery and a little bit like mint. If you've ever eaten pizza or spaghetti with red sauce, you've probably tasted oregano. It's one of the most important flavors in Italian and Greek cooking.

The plant grows easily in warm, sunny places, which is why it became so popular around the Mediterranean Sea. Cooks usually dry the leaves and crumble them into dishes, though fresh oregano works too. A little oregano goes a long way: just a pinch can transform plain tomato sauce into something that smells and tastes like it came from an Italian restaurant.

Oregano is part of the mint family, which explains its fresh, bright flavor. Ancient Greeks called it “joy of the mountain” because it grew wild on hillsides and filled the air with its scent. Besides Italian food, you'll find oregano in Greek salads, Mexican dishes, and Middle Eastern recipes. Many home cooks keep a small jar of dried oregano in their spice cabinet because it's so versatile and useful.