7 Ways With Mint

No doubt fresh peppermint leaves make a beautiful garnish for desserts or beverages like iced tea or mint juleps. Yet their sweet flavor is just at home in salads and savory dishes ranging from pea soup to steak to crostini.

Party guests will love the contrasting textures, colors, and flavors of this simple but unusual crostini. The creamy edamame-mint spread is easy to make, but it looks quite fancy layered on toasted baguette with sliced cucumbers and a sprinkle of chili powder.Recipe: Soybean-Mint Crostini

Tradition takes a holiday in this delightfully different take on the classic Italian salad of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella. Sweet ripe peaches replace tomatoes, mint stands in for basil, and the whole sweet structure is topped with simple curry vinaigrette.Recipe: Peach and Mint Caprese Salad with Curry Vinaigrette

Peas and mint are one of those classic flavor combinations that hit all the right notes on the palate. But this creamy soup combines the two in a light and healthy way. Make it for a special occasion brunch or as a refreshing start to any meal.Recipe: Chilled Pea Soup with Mint Pesto

Sugar snap peas, snow peas, and fresh shucked peas join in a beautiful green melody of sweet and savory flavors. But it's the touch of mint and splash of cream that pull these three different types of peas together into one satisfying side dish.Recipe: Three Peas with Leeks, Mint, and Cream

They'll be licking the plate after this steak and mushroom duo. First, the steak and mushrooms are skillet-seared with a super-easy sauce made of Asian condiments. Then it's all crowned with the Caribbean mojo of mint, cilantro, olive oil, garlic and lemon made in the blender.Recipe: Vietnamese Grilled Steak with Portobellos and Mint Mojo

For nearly 50 years, race fans have been sipping this classic Southern cocktail at the Kentucky Derby. Purists use just bourbon, sugar, crushed fresh mint and water, but this one gets a bit of sparkle from lemon peel and a splash of club soda.Recipe: Classic Mint Julep

Try this easy chicken salad for a quick weeknight supper. The simple mint vinaigrette, made in the blender, is tossed with chopped chicken, cucumbers, pecans, and nectarines for a sweet, savory flavor. If nectarines aren't available, substitute fresh melon.Recipe: Chicken Salad With Nectarines in Mint Vinaigrette