Grow Some Basil this Year

By Kathy Hester

Basil is one of my favorite herbs. I use it dried in the winter, but I truly love using it fresh all summer long. One reason to grow some yourself is to try out the amazing varieties that you can't buy in the store. I am planting lime, lemon, Thai, lettuce leaf, purple opal, and Genovese basil this year in my garden. It may sound like a lot but it's just scratching the surface.

Only have a tiny windowsill? You can still grow Greek basil. It's grows like a tiny topiary ball and works great in small pots. You don't need anything fancy, just some basil seeds, a pot, and some potting soil. Make sure you get potting soil and not top soil or garden soil if you are planting in containers.

If you already have a container garden, basil is the perfect addition. Tuck it around tomatoes, peppers, or in with other herbs. Personally, I put some in any available space so I can make extra pesto to freeze for a special treat once it's not garden weather anymore.

Making pesto is super simple. Just throw some fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan and olive oil in a food processor or blender. If you don't have any pine nuts in the cabinet try some almonds, pistachios, or even pecans. Each one adds a slightly different flavor. You may just find that you like the new way better than the traditional one. You can also use a blend of herbs instead of only using basil. Try a mix of oregano and basil, or add in a small bit of garlic chives in place of the garlic.

I love to serve pasta coated in bright green pesto on Noritake colorwave green dinnerware. But you don't have to always serve pesto heated. Add a bit more olive oil and it becomes the perfect way to dress a simmer pasta salad. I like marinating lightly steamed veggies in it overnight and then serving that over freshly picked lettuce.

Basil is also great in drinks. Try muddling it in a mojito instead of mint and it's amazing pureed in a strawberry basil limeade. Try adding it in a pitcher of water with some lemon slices. It's decorative and delicious!