Dried oregano refers to the dried leaves and flowers of the Origanum vulgare plant, which is a common species of the mint family. The process of drying involves removing moisture from fresh oregano leaves through air-drying or oven-drying until they become brittle and retain their flavor but lose their green color. Dried oregano has a more concentrated, intense flavor compared to its fresh counterpart, making it an ideal ingredient for adding depth of flavor in cooking without using as much as the fresh herb would require. It is commonly used in Italian cuisine and other Mediterranean dishes such as pizza, pasta sauces, meat marinades, and salad dressings to add a distinct oregano taste.