Out of Summer savory, one case
Summer savory substitute
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Thyme
Same amount as the summer savory
The best summer savory substitute is thyme (1:1 ratio) or oregano (1:1 ratio). For a more complex flavor, use a combination of marjoram and basil (1 tsp summer savory = ½ tsp marjoram + ½ tsp basil).
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
One casethe full savory card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of summer savory | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thymecooking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | OreganoItalian dishes | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Marjoram + basilsummer dishes | ½ tsp marjoram + ½ tsp basil per 1 tsp summer savoryWorks | Works |
| 4 | Marjoramsoups | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Basilsummer cooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Thyme
similar taste and texture
The closest substitute to summer savory with similar earthy, slightly minty flavor that works in most applications
- Best for
- cooking, baking, soups, stews, roasted vegetables
Most similar flavor profile to summer savory, works in 90% of recipes.
Oregano
similar taste and texture
Mediterranean herb with robust flavor that complements many dishes summer savory is used in
- Best for
- Italian dishes, Mediterranean cooking, pizza, pasta sauces
More pungent than summer savory but works well in hearty dishes.
Marjoram + basil
similar taste and texture
Combination that mimics summer savory's complexity and fresh flavor profile
- Best for
- summer dishes, vegetable dishes, light sauces, salads
Best for dishes where summer savory's fresh quality is important.
Marjoram
similar taste and texture
Sweet, mild herb that provides similar warmth and depth to summer savory
- Best for
- soups, stews, vegetable dishes, stuffing
Milder than summer savory but similar warmth.
Basil
different taste, similar texture
Fresh herb with slightly sweet, peppery notes that works well in summer dishes
- Best for
- summer cooking, vegetable dishes, light sauces, salads
More sweet than summer savory but works well in fresh applications.
How it behaves in this recipe
When substituting for summer savory, it's important to consider that summer savory has a fresher, more delicate flavor than winter savory. Choose substitutes that can provide similar lightness and freshness, especially in summer dishes.
Tips for substituting summer savory
8 tips- Add summer savory substitutes towards the end of cooking to preserve their delicate flavors
- For fresh herbs, use 3 times more than dried versions
- Summer savory substitutes work best in dishes with shorter cooking times to preserve freshness
- When using oregano as a summer savory substitute, use slightly less as it's more pungent
- Thyme works particularly well in poultry and vegetable dishes that traditionally use summer savory
- For summer dishes, a combination of marjoram and basil works excellently
- In light sauces and dressings, fresh herbs work better than dried
- When substituting dried herbs for fresh summer savory, use about 1/3 the amount
Notes on summer savory
- If you don't have any herbs, try using a small amount of Italian seasoning (which often contains summer savory) mixed with thyme
- For a completely different approach, use a small amount of fennel seeds or caraway seeds for earthy depth
- In Mediterranean dishes, a combination of basil and oregano can sometimes work as a summer savory substitute
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for summer savory?
Thyme is the best substitute for summer savory. It has a similar earthy, slightly minty flavor profile and works well in most dishes where summer savory is used.
Can I use oregano instead of summer savory?
Yes, oregano can work as a summer savory substitute, especially in Mediterranean dishes. However, it has a more pungent flavor, so use slightly less than the recipe calls for.
How do I substitute dried summer savory for fresh?
Use about 1/3 the amount of dried summer savory compared to fresh. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon fresh summer savory, use 1 teaspoon dried summer savory.
What herbs work best together as a summer savory substitute?
A combination of marjoram and basil (½ tsp each for 1 tsp summer savory) works well, as does thyme with a pinch of marjoram for added complexity.
Can I use basil instead of summer savory?
Yes, basil can work as a summer savory substitute, especially in summer dishes and light sauces. However, it has a sweeter flavor, so it works best in fresh applications.