Italian herb paste substitutes
Italian herb paste substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Italian seasoning
Same amount as the Italian herb paste
Similar seasoning with different form.
The best substitutes for Italian herb paste are Italian seasoning, fresh herbs, or a homemade blend, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Italian herb paste | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Italian seasoningcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Fresh herbscooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Homemade blendcooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Herbes de Provencecooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 5 | Mediterranean seasoningcooking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | Basil + oregano + thymecooking | Same amountPlus ½ tsp each per tbspTweak it | Tweak it |
Italian seasoning
similar taste, different texture
Similar seasoning with different form.
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, rubs
Different form, similar flavor.
Fresh herbs
similar taste, different texture
Similar herbs with different form.
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, rubs
Different form, similar flavor.
Homemade blend
similar taste and texture
Similar paste with different preparation.
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, rubs
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Herbes de Provence
different taste and texture
Similar herb blend with different composition.
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, rubs
Different composition, similar flavor.
Mediterranean seasoning
different taste and texture
Similar seasoning with different composition.
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, rubs
Different composition, similar flavor.
Basil + oregano + thyme
similar taste, different texture
Similar combination with different preparation.
- Best for
- cooking, marinades, sauces, rubs
Different preparation, similar flavor.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use Italian seasoning instead of Italian herb paste?
Yes, Italian seasoning is a good substitute for Italian herb paste. It has a different form but similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
What's the difference between Italian herb paste and Italian seasoning?
Italian herb paste is a concentrated paste, while Italian seasoning is a dried blend. Both have Italian herb flavor but different forms.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of Italian herb paste?
Yes, fresh herbs can work as a substitute, though they have a different form. They provide similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
Why is Italian herb paste so popular in Italian cooking?
Italian herb paste is popular because it adds concentrated herb flavor and is good for making marinades and sauces.
Tips for substituting Italian herb paste
6 tips- Italian herb paste adds concentrated herb flavor to dishes
- Italian herb paste can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Italian herb paste pairs well with meats, vegetables, and pasta
- Italian herb paste works well in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines
- Italian herb paste can be used to make marinades and sauces
- Store Italian herb paste in the refrigerator