Food for Health Teen Chefs: Cooking Healthy Meals & Learning Nutrition

Fox Valley Food for Health

February 19, 2026

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Food for Health Teen Chefs do more than cook, prepare and package healthy meals for our recipients, they also gain hands-on nutrition education from our Executive Chef.

Check out one of our recent lessons, 10 Herbs Everyone Should Know: Health Benefits and Uses, where Teens discovered how herbs can enhance flavor naturally while providing powerful health benefits.

10 Herbs Everyone Should Know: Health Benefits and Uses

Herbs do more than add flavor to food - many also support overall wellness. From calming stress to helping digestion, these natural plants have been used for centuries in cooking and traditional health practices. Here are 10 popular herbs every teen (and family) should know about!

Herb Heath Benefit Main Compound Best Use for Teens
Lemon Balm Calms stress/sleep Rosmarinic acid Tea, salads, infused water
Parsley Immunity, fresh breath Apigenin Salads, smoothies
Peppermint Stomach relief, energy Menthol Tea, chew a leaf
Chamomile Relaxation, sleep Apigenin Tea before bed
Basil Supports immunity, reduces stress Eugenol Fresh on pizza, pasta, or in salads
Chives Supports eye and immune health Allicin Chopped fresh over baked potatoes, eggs, or sandwiches
Sage Brain health Rosmarinic acid Roasts, tea
Garlic Immunity, heart health Allicin Raw in dressings
Rosemary Enhances concentration, stress Carnosic acid Roasted veggies
Echinacea Immunity, cold relief Alkamides Herbal tea

*This herb guide is based on traditional culinary uses and general wellness information shared by the Food for Health kitchen. It is not medical or nutritional advice and should not replace guidance from your physician or registered dietitian. Individual needs vary, so speak with a qualified healthcare professional if you have questions about using herbs as part of your diet.

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