Sweet Basil

• Use fresh sweet basil leaves to make classic pesto Genovese, blending it with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil for a flavorful sauce to toss with pasta or spread on sandwiches.
• Add chopped sweet basil to fresh tomato salads or caprese salads with mozzarella cheese and balsamic glaze for a simple yet flavorful appetizer or side dish.
• Infuse olive oil with fresh sweet basil leaves to create a flavorful basil-infused oil, perfect for drizzling over pizzas, grilled vegetables, or salads, enhancing their taste with a herbaceous touch.
• Incorporate sweet basil into homemade tomato sauces and pasta sauces to enhance the overall flavor profile, adding a touch of sweetness and herbaceousness that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
• Garnish Vietnamese pho or Thai green curry with fresh basil leaves, adding an aromatic and refreshing element that complements the spicy and savory flavors of the dishes.
• Blend sweet basil into refreshing summer drinks like basil lemonade or basil-infused water, combining it with other fruits and herbs for a unique and flavorful beverage.

• Rich in antioxidants that help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
• Contains vitamins A and K, essential for maintaining healthy vision and blood clotting.
• Offers anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
• May aid in digestion and relieve bloating due to its carminative effects.
• Source of essential oils like eugenol, which possess antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Fresh sweet basil is best stored like cut flowers. Place the stems in a glass of water, covering only the roots, and loosely cover the leaves with a plastic bag. Keep it on the counter at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Change the water every day or two. Basil can also be dried or frozen for longer-term storage. To freeze, blend basil leaves with a little olive oil and freeze in ice cube trays.