Fresh Home grown basil/Pesto Recipe
There's something incredibly satisfying about growing your own herbs at home. Not only do they add fresh, vibrant flavor to your meals, but there's also a sense of accomplishment that comes with nurturing a plant from a seedling to a full-grown, flourishing herb. Today, I want to introduce you to one of the easiest and most rewarding herbs to grow at home – Basil.
Basil is a versatile herb that's incredibly easy to grow, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned gardeners and beginners alike. It's a plant that keeps on giving, offering abundant leaves for your culinary adventures. Plus, it's not just the leaves that are useful – the flowers are fragrant and edible too, making them a delightful addition to salads and other dishes.
There are many kinds of basil you can grow at home. Each variety has its unique taste and aroma, so you can choose one that suits your palate and culinary needs. From sweet basil, often used in Italian cuisine, to Thai basil, which adds a distinct flavor to Asian dishes, the options are endless.
One of the great things about basil is its adaptability. You can grow it indoors or outdoors, in the ground, grow bags, or pots. Regardless of where you live or how much space you have, you can have a thriving basil plant. I've personally grown basil from Spring to Fall both inside and outside, and the results have always been fantastic.
Now, if you're wondering what to do with all the basil leaves you'll be harvesting, I've got just the thing for you. Why not try your hand at making a delicious, homemade pesto sauce? It's a simple recipe that's packed full of flavor, and best of all, it features the star of the show – your home-grown basil.
Check out my delicious home grown homemade pesto sauce recipe below:
So there you have it – a comprehensive guide on how to grow basil at home. Whether you have a green thumb or not, growing basil is an easy and rewarding endeavor. So, what are you waiting for? Get your basil seeds or seedlings today and start your journey towards home-grown, fresh, and flavorful basil.
Ingredients:
1 cup Spinach Leaves
1 Cup Basil Leaves
1/4 Cup Olive Oil
1 Tbsp. Minced Garlic or 4-5 cloves
1 cup fresh Shredded Parmesan or Romano Cheese ( plus an additional 1 Tbsp for the crust)
1 Tsp Lemon Juice ( optional)
Directions:
1.Add all ingredients 1 cup Spinach Leaves, 1 Cup Basil Leaves,1/4 Cup Olive Oil, 1 Tbsp. Minced Garlic or 4-5 cloves, 1 cup fresh Shredded Parmesan Cheese, 1 Tsp Lemon Juice ( optional)
2. Add to food processor and mix until all the ingredients are well blended.
3. Store pesto in jars or airtight container in the refrigerator for about a week. Another way to store pesto is in the freezer (for about 6 months). It’s recommended not to add the cheese if freezing but instead add cheese when your ready to use it.
Note: Pine Nuts or Walnuts are used in traditional Pesto recipes, if you would like to add some to this recipe 1/3 cup would be appropriate. Pan fry the nuts in olive oil in medium heat until brown.