🌿 Spices & Herbs

Oregano Substitutes for Italian Seasoning

Discover the best oregano substitutes for Italian seasoning including basil, thyme, and other herbs. Find the perfect alternative when you don't have oregano.

✓

Quick Answer

The best oregano substitutes for Italian seasoning are basil (for similar flavor), thyme (for earthy notes), or marjoram (for mild oregano flavor). For a complete substitute, use a mix of basil, thyme, and rosemary. The choice depends on your recipe and available ingredients.

Best Substitutes

Basil

1:1

Basil is the closest substitute for oregano in Italian seasoning. It has a similar flavor profile but is slightly sweeter and more aromatic.

Best for:

pastapizzasaucesmarinades

Similar flavor profile, slightly sweeter

Thyme

1:1

Thyme has an earthy flavor similar to oregano and works well as a substitute. It's slightly more intense but provides good depth of flavor.

Best for:

pastapizzasaucesmarinades

Earthy flavor, similar intensity

Marjoram

1:1

Marjoram is closely related to oregano and has a similar but milder flavor. It's sweeter and less intense, making it a good substitute for delicate dishes.

Best for:

pastapizzasaucesmarinades

Mild oregano flavor, sweeter

Basil + Thyme

1:1 (equal parts)

Mix equal parts basil and thyme to create a balanced substitute for oregano. This combination captures both the sweetness of basil and the earthiness of thyme.

Best for:

pastapizzasaucesmarinades

Combined herb flavor, balanced

Rosemary

1:1

Rosemary has a woody flavor that's more intense than oregano but works well as a substitute. It adds depth and complexity to dishes.

Best for:

pastapizzasaucesmarinades

Woody flavor, more intense

Sage

1:1

Sage has an earthy flavor similar to oregano but is slightly more bitter. It works well as a substitute in heartier dishes.

Best for:

pastapizzasaucesmarinades

Earthy flavor, slightly bitter

Parsley

1:1

Parsley has a fresh, mild flavor that works well as a substitute for oregano. It's less intense but adds brightness to dishes.

Best for:

pastapizzasaucesmarinades

Fresh flavor, milder

Fennel Seeds

1:1

Fennel seeds have an anise flavor that's different from oregano but works well in Italian dishes. They add aromatic complexity to dishes.

Best for:

pastapizzasaucesmarinades

Anise flavor, aromatic

Bay Leaves

1:1

Bay leaves have an earthy flavor that's more intense than oregano but works well as a substitute. They add depth and complexity to dishes.

Best for:

pastapizzasaucesmarinades

Earthy flavor, more intense

Italian Seasoning Mix

1:1

Use a complete Italian seasoning mix as a substitute for oregano. This provides all the herbs typically found in Italian seasoning, including oregano.

Best for:

all recipescookingbakingmarinades

Complete herb blend, balanced

Cooking Tips

  • 💡For pasta: Use basil or thyme for similar flavor
  • 💡In pizza: Use basil or marjoram for authentic taste
  • 💡For sauces: Use basil + thyme combination for balance
  • 💡In marinades: Use thyme or rosemary for depth
  • 💡For roasting: Use rosemary or sage for intensity
  • 💡In soups: Use thyme or bay leaves for earthiness
  • 💡For grilling: Use rosemary or sage for bold flavor
  • 💡In bread: Use thyme or marjoram for subtle flavor
  • 💡For vegetables: Use parsley or marjoram for brightness
  • 💡In dressings: Use basil or parsley for freshness

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best substitute for oregano in Italian seasoning?

The best substitute for oregano in Italian seasoning is basil (for similar flavor), thyme (for earthy notes), or marjoram (for mild oregano flavor). For a complete substitute, use a mix of basil, thyme, and rosemary.

Can I use basil instead of oregano?

Yes, basil is an excellent substitute for oregano. It has a similar flavor profile but is slightly sweeter and more aromatic. Use a 1:1 ratio.

What's the best substitute for oregano in pasta?

For pasta, use basil or thyme for similar flavor. Basil provides sweetness while thyme adds earthiness. You can also use a combination of both.

Can I use thyme instead of oregano?

Yes, thyme is a good substitute for oregano. It has an earthy flavor similar to oregano and works well in most recipes. Use a 1:1 ratio.

What's the best substitute for oregano in pizza?

For pizza, use basil or marjoram for authentic taste. Basil provides sweetness while marjoram offers a mild oregano flavor. You can also use a combination of both.

Can I use marjoram instead of oregano?

Yes, marjoram is closely related to oregano and makes an excellent substitute. It has a similar but milder flavor and is sweeter. Use a 1:1 ratio.

What's the best substitute for oregano in sauces?

For sauces, use basil or a combination of basil + thyme for balance. Basil provides sweetness while thyme adds earthiness. This creates a well-rounded flavor profile.

Can I use rosemary instead of oregano?

Yes, rosemary can be used as a substitute for oregano, but it has a woody flavor that's more intense. It works well in heartier dishes where you want bold flavor.

What's the best substitute for oregano in marinades?

For marinades, use thyme or rosemary for depth. Thyme provides earthiness while rosemary adds woody complexity. You can also use a combination of both.

Can I use sage instead of oregano?

Yes, sage can be used as a substitute for oregano, but it has an earthy flavor that's slightly more bitter. It works well in heartier dishes where you want intense flavor.

Summary

Best oregano substitutes for Italian seasoning including basil, thyme, and marjoram. Find the perfect alternative when you don't have oregano.