OP here, thx for responses, I've got some ideas now. I was afraid it would be too bland without the sage and that it needed something else.

If you want another herb, you could try thyme or marjoram. They'll go in really different directions than sage, but I guess that's your point.

Personally, I'd try Chinese Five Spice in place of the sage, cinnamon and nutmeg. Start with 1.5 or maybe 2 tsp. and then adjust from there.

Or, I liked the PP's suggestion of raisins.

Ginger

I wouldn't substitute another herb. If it seems lacking, I would suggest celery, raisins, grapes or walnuts.

I just leave out sage all the time because it's too expensive for me. You'll be fine.

OTOH, I'm obsessed with Tarragon. My new love: black beans, rice, and tarragon.

sage is really distinctive. if you don't have any fresh parsley, you just leave out the ingredient and not substitute anything.

I want to try this recipe, which is basically roasted chicken with apples:

http://www.heatovento350.com/2012/10/chicken-thighs-with-roasted-apples-and.html?m=1

However, it calls for 1 teaspoon of sage, which I am not particularly fond of. What other herb(s) would you substitute?