Ok, Colonel Sanders’ secret recipe calls for 11 secret herbs and spices, but nobody is saying you have to confine yourself to using just salt and pepper. Those new to cooking get intimidated by the sheer variety of seasonings out there that many are just too afraid to try them. Fortunately for you, there are ten go-to herbs and spices that are hard to mess up.

#1-Basil: One of the staples in pasta sauces and pesto. Also good for salads, this herb is best used fresh. Many cooks keep a potted basil plant in their kitchen for ease of access and freshness.

#2-Thyme: Commonly used as an ingredient in meat rubs, it also works well in soups, stews, and casseroles. A small amount goes a long way, so mind the quantities when using this potent herb.

#3-Rosemary: There is no mistaking the aroma of this fragrant herb. Used mainly in potato dishes, it also lessens the strong taste of lamb. Use sparingly because a little sprinkle can go a long way.

#4-Garlic: This should be a staple in your kitchen. Even if you don’t much care for the taste of garlic, it can add so much to your favorite dishes. You can find garlic in many different forms including garlic paste but buying it fresh will give your dish a full, intense flavor.

#5-Oregano: Its numerous uses in soups, pasta sauces, vegetable dishes, pizzas, and roasts says a lot about this herb’s versatility. You can be bold with experimenting with this and not be afraid of ruining anything as long as you don’t go nuts. Its aroma can give life to ordinary dishes.

#6-Red Pepper: Misunderstanding causes beginners to avoid this spice. Many think that using red pepper naturally ends in a fiery hot dish. Used properly, it can bring out the taste in foods rather than overwhelm them. There is such a thing as a mild chilli and all it takes is knowing how much red pepper to use.

#7-Dill: This gives a nice light, grassy essence to your dish and is commonly used in egg dishes, soups, salads, and sandwiches. It you use this herb in a cooked dish; add it at the end to enjoy the full flavor.

#8-Sage: It works well with chicken, pork and lamb dishes – even when combined with other herbs. Also great with potatoes and other vegetables. Lastly, mild cheeses will get a kick from it.

#9- Chives: The most common use for chives is in potato and egg dishes. It’s got a fairly strong onion flavor and the color is a nice plus, too.

#10- Mint: Not only does this herb have a wonderful aroma, the taste is all its own. Often used with vegetables (especially peas), fruit and chocolate, you’ll find several variations available at your local supermarket.

There you have it! Ten herbs and seasonings that should be in every kitchen! Of course, there are others that are terrific, too, but for those just learning about herbs and seasonings, these are the mainstays. Experiment a little with these herbs and seasonings and you’ll soon find a mix that you really enjoy. Bon appetite!