Mint adds a special flavor to anything that you add it to, whether you muddle a bit in your favorite cocktail or use it to bring a bit of cool zest to marinated vegetables. Mint is also a very easy herb to raise in an herb garden, so it’s convenient to always have on hand. Here are just a few unique mint recipes that you’re sure to love.

Cucumber Lime Mint Agua Fresca [Simply Recipes]
This traditional Mexican fruit drink blends the cool, refreshing flavors of cucumber, lime, and mint into a juicy beverage that’s ideal for a hot summer day. Though the combination may seem strange, you’ll become a believer as soon as you take the first sip of this flavorful drink.

Zucchini, Mint and Yogurt Spread [The Kitchn]
Middle Eastern dips, like hummus and baba ganoush, taste wonderful on warm pita bread, but they can be a bit hearty for a simple snack. This zucchini and yogurt spread offers a much lighter texture, but the addition of mint and lemon brings out an intense flavor that’s just as delicious.

Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls [AllRecipes]
Instead of ordering in the usual fried spring rolls from your local takeout spot, try these Vietnamese spring rolls for a healthier take on your favorite side dish. Thin rice wrappers hold the fresh veggies together, while Thai basil and mint leaves provide a bold, complex taste.

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/stu_spivack

From small beginnings, Just Dinner has grown into a great local BYOB dining experience. Located in the Mogan House in the neighborhood of Montrose, Just Dinner is just that – a delicious dinner option. While this is a casual restaurant, the décor is decidedly upscale, but also quiet and comfortable.

Visit and you can start out with an appetizer like country pate or warm brie to share, and move on to tasty entrée options that will satisfy any diner. Everything is made fresh because all of the ingredients are either harvested in the restaurant’s garden, or bought that day. What a great way to have a tasty rendezvous with somebody special!

Just Dinner is open Tuesday through Saturday for – what else – just dinner! Reservations are accepted.

Just Dinner
1915 Dunlavy Street
Houston, TX 77006
(713) 807-0077

www.justdinnerhouston.com
www.yelp.com/biz/just-dinner-houston-2

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Brian Child

Bite into the crispy spring rolls or savor the delicious broth of a splendid vermicelli bowl at Huynh, a family-owned Vietnamese restaurant that's been part of Houston's dining scene for more than a decade. Consistently named one of Houston's best Vietnamese eateries, Huynh complements its flavorful fare with an inviting atmosphere and friendly staff. Simple floral arrangements accent the lightly colored walls and carpet, creating a serene space to enjoy a meal with family or friends.

Authentic Vietnamese dishes here are replete with spice and texture. Come for lunch and feast on Huynh's mid-priced pho, a traditional Vietnamese soup that includes up to four meats of your choice. Dinner promises a feast of flavors when you order dishes like Dau Hu Xoa Thit Xay, a combination of diced tofu and ground pork with mushrooms, peppers, and onions to share with your favorite people.

Huynh Restaurant opens at 11 a.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Note that this popular eatery is closed on Sundays.

Huynh
912 St. Emanuel Street
Houston, TX 77003
(713) 224-8964
www.huynhrestauranthouston.com
www.yelp.com/biz/huynh-houston

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Simon Law