Basil (Ocinum basilicum) is a tasty and versatile herb that anyone can grow in their vegetable garden, flower box, or even on the kitchen windowsill. Many people associate basil with Italian cooking, but it is widely used in Indian and Thai cuisine as well. Basil adds wonderful flavor to many dishes—so keep reading for even more fresh ideas for basil.

Growing basil

• You can buy basil plants from most nurseries, or plant seeds (indoors or outside after frost)
• Pinch back stems often to get bushy plants with lots of leaves
• *Basil does best in full sun
• Basil is a warm weather plant—do not plant outside until daytime temperatures reach 70˚

Culinary uses for basil

• Chopped fresh basil is delicious mixed in a garden salad or as a garnish for chicken, fish, or pasta dishes
• Make pesto!
• Use fresh chopped basil in sauces, salad dressings, and marinades
• Add to your favorite Asian stir fry
• Kick your sandwiches up a notch by adding fresh basil instead of lettuce
• Make basil butter or basil oil to put on roasted or grilled veggies
• Make an omelet or quiche with mozzarella, tomatoes, and lots of fresh basil
• Basil works nicely with some types of fruit salads (i.e. citrus or berries)

Other uses for basil

• Basil is a refreshing addition to an herbal bath
• Tea made from basil leaves is a good remedy for sore gums or ulcers in the mouth
• Burning basil leaves on your outdoor grill will keep mosquitoes away
• Basil is also said to aid digestion- either fresh or steeped in tea
• Basil is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes
• Use cut fresh basil as a natural air freshener

Storing basil

• Basil does not keep well in the refrigerator. The best way to keep basil fresh for up to a week is by keeping stems in water like cut flowers.
• Basil loses most of its flavor from drying. But you can freeze it between sheets of wax paper or chopped up in ice cubes (these make great additions to soup through the winter).
• Basil stores very well for several months packed in kosher salt and refrigerated (make sure leaves do not overlap)