I hope you have enjoyed this Fresh Herb Week (#freshherbweek) that we’re having. I know that I have had fun sharing new recipes and ideas with all of you.
And, there might be even more twitter questions in store, so keep an eye out!
This is our first herb ingredient of the month, and I am very excited! Since I currently have a thriving plant of it in my backyard, I’m so ready to get to using it!
Without further ado, I introduce to you, my friend, basil.
Tell me more:
Basil is an herb that grows in leaves on stalks. There are many varieties, such as sweet, Thai, lemon and purple. The color of basil can vary from a grass green to purple and everywhere in between (in a very non-Barney sense).
Where do I buy it:
Funny that you ask because you can get all of the details you need to grow basil from Monday’s Fresh Herb Week post. If you don’t have a basil plant, you can buy it in most grocery stores. Look for basil that has strong, bright leaves and/or a sturdy stalk.
Where do I store it:
After it’s been picked from a plant, you need to use basil immediately or it will begin to wilt. If you need to wait a bit to use it, stick the stems in a cup with some water to keep it hydrated. For store-bought basil, store in the fridge and use within a few days.
How do I use it:
Basil can be used in many different ways after slicing (in a chiffonade), tearing or left whole. From cocktails to the classic pasta topper to desserts, this herb can brighten up the flavors of just about any dish. It’s even good in hot tea!
Here are some other ways to use basil:
- Basil Bacon Lettuce & Tomato (BBLT) sandwich
- Thai Beef with Basil
- In a pizza sauce or topping a homemade pizza
- With gnocchi
- Make a Basil Gimlet (use simple syrup if you don’t have agave nectar)
- Make your own basil simple syrup for other cocktails
- Strawberry Basil Shortcakes or basil ice cream
What’s your favorite way to use basil? Chime in by commenting below or using the hashtag #freshherbweek on social media!
Check out our past Ingredient of the Month posts: