I’m very excited to start this Herb Series on various culinary herbs. Each post will highlight a particular herb and easy ways to incorporate it into your daily eating. 

Herbs are such a nutritious and delicious way to upgrade your nutrition!

So let’s start with a favorite: BASIL!

Fun fact! There are more than 60 varieties of basil besides the sweet basil we are most familiar, including lemon basil, Thai basil, cinnamon basil and holy basil.

Benefits of BASIL

• good source of flavonoids, particularly those found to protect cell structures and chromosomes from radiation and oxidation
• antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties
• effective in restricting growth of certain bacteria namely e coli and staphylococcus aureus
• good source of vitamins K, A, calcium and potassium and beta-carotene

BASIL in cooking and recipes

• Pesto with garlic, olive oil and a nut (walnuts, pine nuts, pistachios)
• Add to fruit and fruit smoothies for a refreshing twist. Especially delicious with watermelon and other melons!
• Add to water with slices of citrus for a pretty and tasty treat
• Caprese salad of mozzarella, tomatoes and basil
• Add to the top of stir fry, pasta dishes or soups for a fresh taste and added flavor

Tip: Store basil in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel in a plastic bag.  Can also be frozen.  Even better idea is to buy a basil plant! Very easy to grow!

Want some basil inspiration? Check out this Huffington Post article with over 34 ways to use basil in a recipe! Yum!

What’s your favorite way to use basil?