Posted by Cole & Mason UK
on May 08, 2025
13 Versatile Ways to Use Fresh Mint: Recipes, Drinks & DIY Ideas
Mint is one of the most versatile herbs out there. Whether you're tossing it into a salad, blending it into drinks, or using it in your skincare routine, there are endless ways to use mint that go far beyond the classic peppermint tea. Whether you're growing mint in your garden or grabbing a bunch at the market, here are some fresh ideas on how to make the most of this leafy green gem.
Savoury Uses for Mint
Mint brings a bright, herbaceous flavour to savoury dishes. It’s especially common in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian cuisines.
1. Mint Yoghurt Sauce
Perfect as a dip or drizzle, mint yoghurt sauce pairs beautifully with grilled meats, falafel, or roasted vegetables.
2. Tabbouleh
This classic Middle Eastern salad features bulgur wheat, parsley, tomato, lemon juice, and plenty of fresh mint. It’s light, zesty, and ideal for summer.
3. Couscous, Quinoa & Salads
Toss chopped mint through grain-based salads – it pairs especially well with citrus, pomegranate, or dried fruit like apricots.
4. Pea and Mint Soup
A springtime classic. This light and vibrant soup is easy to make and tastes like a spoonful of fresh air.
Refreshing Drinks with Mint
From cocktails to cooling teas, mint is a star ingredient in many refreshing beverages.
1. Mojito & Margarita
Mint brings a refreshing twist to cocktails. In a classic mojito, it's muddled with lime, sugar, white rum, and soda water for the ultimate summer sip. Or try it in a minty margarita for something a little different.
2. Mint Lemonade
Blitz fresh mint with lemon juice, sugar, and cold water for a revitalising twist on traditional lemonade.
3. Herbal Mint Tea
Steep fresh mint leaves in hot water for a caffeine-free tea that soothes the stomach and clears the mind. A drizzle of honey takes it to the next level.
4. Cucumber-Mint Water
Hydrating and great for digestion – just add a few mint leaves and cucumber slices to your water bottle for a spa-like feel.
Sweet Ways to Use Mint
Mint also shines in sweet dishes, offering a refreshing contrast to rich or fruity flavours.
1. Mint Chocolate Delights
From mint choc chip ice cream to mint brownies and chocolate bark, this flavour combo is always a winner.
2. Fruit Salads
Chopped mint livens up fruit salads, especially when paired with berries, watermelon, mango, or citrus fruits.
3. Sorbets and Ice Lollies
Combine fresh mint with fruits like berries, or citrus to create refreshing homemade sorbets and ice lollies – a simple and delicious way to cool down on warm days.
Non-Food Uses for Mint
Mint’s benefits don’t stop at the plate or glass – it's also great in the bathroom and even the garden.
1. DIY Beauty
Add mint leaves or mint oil to bath water or homemade body scrubs for a refreshing and invigorating self-care routine.
2. Natural Insect Repellent
Mint oil can help deter mosquitoes and other pests. Simply mix it with water in a spray bottle or use it in homemade candles or diffusers.
Whether you're cooking, mixing drinks, or crafting a homemade skincare routine, mint is one of those herbs that does it all. It’s easy to grow, packed with flavour, and offers a wealth of culinary and wellness benefits.
Learn how to keep your own fresh mint.