Experts Reveal 9 Delicious Ways to Use Up Mint Before It Goes Bad

Mint is technically an herb, but it can grow like a weed. And that can be great for your kitchen! The infamously aggressive plant can spread through a garden bed or pot with a vengeance, but if you know what to do with all those leaves, you’re in for plenty of refreshing summer treats.

Mint has a long history of culinary and traditional medicinal use, and peppermint in particular has been studied for its potential digestive benefits. Plus, chewing fresh mint leaves can temporarily freshen your breath. Here’s what to do with your abundance of mint this season.

Steep mint tea

One of the easiest uses for fresh mint is mint tea. Place mint leaves and delicate stems in a teapot or other heatproof vessel. Add boiling water and let steep to your desired tea strength, 5 to 10 minutes. Strain and serve it hot or chill it for a refreshing iced tea.

Peppermint tea, in particular, is commonly enjoyed after meals. The herb has traditionally been used to ease digestive discomfort.

Make mint syrup

Mint syrup is as easy as making simple syrup, with fresh mint added in.

1. Combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan, and add a handful of mint leaves. The pungency of the syrup is up to you.
2. Simmer the mixture until the sugar completely dissolves. Allow to cool then transfer to a jar, straining out the mint.

Use the mint syrup to sweeten coffee drinks, iced tea, lemonade, cocktails, and so much more.

Shake it up in cocktails

A mint julep is great showcase for the herb, both in the bourbon-based cocktail itself and as a fresh garnish.

Try it in a classic mojito or a mojito wine spritzer.

Fresh mint adds great aroma to a Hugo Spritz as well as this beautifully layered Black Currant Hugo Spritz.

Elderflower gin punch gets a lovely boost from fresh mint.

If vodka is your spirit of choice, consider these blackberry mint Moscow mules or make it a mocktail by leaving out the booze.

Blitz up mint pesto

Pesto can be made with all kinds of herbs and greens, and mint is a fun alternative to or addition to basil. This mint, pistachio, and cilantro pesto was designed to pair with eggs, but can be used as a unique topping for grilled chicken, lamb, seafood, or pasta dishes.

Toss together minty salads

Mint is green and therefore a lively addition to salads. Even lettuce-free ones!

Combine it with tender baby gem lettuce, peppery arugula, and a light lemon dressing in this herb garden salad.

Pair it with other tender herbs and baby greens in this mixed green and herb toss salad for a light appetizer or side dish.

Pea-based salads go especially well with mint, whether it’s tossed in or scattered on top.

For something more substantial, this ginger pork and cucumber salad uses mint to brighten the dish in a quick protein-pack meal.

Blend it in green juice or a smoothie

Tossing fresh mint into green juice or a smoothie is an easy way to use up a big handful of leaves while adding a cool, refreshing flavor. If you have a serious surplus, this ultimate green juice calls for a full 2 cups of mint leaves, along with green apple, cucumber, and celery. You can also add a handful to your favorite green or fruit smoothie for an extra-fresh twist.

Make a mint bouquet

Arrange fresh grown mint in vases in your kitchen or dining room. The natural scent can help deodorize a room, and inhaling it can also help calm nerves. The plant can by styled on its own or mixed with other greenery or flowers for a fuller bouquet appearance. A bud vase with lush mint is also a great hosting gift!

Garnish lavishly with mint

Mint is an ideal garnish for dishes across a wide range of cuisines, thanks to its bright flavor and pretty leaves. Try adding it to a grilled fruit salad, Parmesan waffles with lemon ricotta, grilled zucchini with coconut chile drizzle, watermelon za’atar salad, or really, almost anything! From juicy summer fruit to rich grilled meats, a handful of mint can add a welcome hit of freshness.