So, you decided to grow basil. Now what can you do with it? This bright green flavorful herb has several uses. The best part is you can harvest your basil as you need it.
You can finely chop the leaves for recipes that call for basil. You can use it in salads, pasta dishes, even colorful cocktails make a perfect pairing.
To store your basil:
Wash your basil, dry the leaves and store in the refrigerator. You will want to wrap the leaves in a dry paper towel and place them inside a plastic bag. Seal the bag and store for 1-2 weeks.
You can freeze your basil to enjoy long after the season is over. https://www.wikihow.com/freeze-basil
You can also dry the leaves and store in spice jars. https://www.wikihow.com/dry-basil
Pesto: What is it and how do you use it
My favorite thing to make is pesto with my basil leaves. It is a sauce that is great on a lot of things. From pasta, sandwiches, salmon, to crackers, sandwiches or baked potatoes. You can use a mix of basil and spinach leaves. Add pine nuts, chopped peanuts or walnuts. Try it with lemon zest or some sun-dried tomatoes.
Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed (can substitute with 1/2 spinach leaves)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground pepper, or more to taste
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
Preparing:
- Pulse the basil leaves and pine nuts in a food processor and pulse several times.
- Add the garlic and cheese. Scrape the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula.
- Slowly pour in oil and process to help emulsify your pesto. Continue to scrape the sides of the processor.
4. Season the pesto with salt and fresh pepper to taste.
Notes: Basil pesto darkens when exposed to air. To store, cover tightly with plastic wrap, making sure the plastic wrap touches the top of the pesto. It will help it retain its green rich color. You can also freeze your pesto by omitting the cheese and nuts until you are ready to use it. Add a layer of olive oil over the top of your freezer container of pesto to prevent it from discoloring.
Enjoy!!