Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

An aromatic herb used in Italian and Asian cooking, basil is a member of the mint family. Ayurvedic tradition uses basil for its calming effect on the nervous system -- no wonder we eat it with comforting food!

Basil is often used fresh. Chop the leaves and incorporate at the last moment, as basil loses flavor with cooking.

Storage Tips:

• Basil is best used fresh.

• The best way to preserve basil is to make a pesto! Basil can also be frozen, but dried basil is bland and tasteless.