BASIL

Basil, or sweet basil, as it is known, is the most popular and common of all culinary basil cultivars. It grows heart shaped leaves that can be harvested at the size of a fingernail up to four inches in length. Basil has highly aromatic qualities and flavor profiles; the wide range of distinctive fragrances within its chemical makeup emit notes of citrus, clove, anise and cinnamon, all providing a sensory memory that sets basil apart from other herbs.

Basil is a delicate herb that can be used whole, chopped, crushed into a paste or dried; though it loses much of its aromatic properties when dried. It is most commonly used raw in fresh applications or when finishing cooked preparations as heat alters the flavor and color of the herb. Add strands of Basil to chopped, stacked and bread salads. Serve chopped atop pizza, pasta, chicken and fish. Combine with pistachios, pinenuts and/or walnuts to make a creamy pesto sauce. The aromatic flavor of Basil pairs well with tomatoes, garlic, onion, corn, pear, mint, strawberry and cow’s milk cheeses. Basil will keep, dry and refrigerated, for up to a week but is best when used immediately. 

On the blog...

Pesto Everything, Please! 

We're sharing a simple basil pesto recipe from the kitchen of our Bedding Manager, Randall Barnes.

Grower Spotlight: Flatland Flower Farm

For over 14 years we have been working with Flatland Flower Farm to deliver their organic heirloom and specialty plants right to your garden!

Herbs You can grow in your kitchen

Growing fresh herbs in your kitchen is not only more fun, it makes them convenient to use and adds beauty to your home to boot!