Italian seasoning is a dry herb mix, usually consisting of basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram. Each one of the Italian seasoning ingredients serves a distinct culinary purpose in the mix to help create an earthy, aromatic flavor that comes across with slight peppery and sweet notes.

And each herb has a tie to classic Italian cuisine. Basil gives off a slightly sweet aroma and is often used on pizza or in the classic caprese salad. Oregano is a familiar herb in pizza and pasta recipes with its earthy, almost minty notes. Thyme’s floral flavor pairs wonderfully with poultry. Rosemary is often paired with thyme and its peppery fragrance goes well with fire-roasted meats. Marjorum’s sweet and bitter notes blend all the flavors nicely, especially when added to meat dishes.