BASIL:
More than just the sum of its 'pestos' ;o), basil boasts some very important health benefits. Two tsp. of this aromatic herb provides 60% of your RDA for Vitamin K, which promotes blood clotting and helps the body absorb calcium, which we all know is crucial in building and maintaining bone density. What’s more, basil's essential oils inhibit the growth of bacteria, making it a tasty way to keep infections at bay.It is fairly easy to grow, given that you keep it in the sun as much as possible and plant it near mums, which will keep some of the pesky insects away.
Creamy Tomato Basil Spread:
In a blender or food processor, combine:
¾ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
One 8-oz pkg of cream cheese
1 tsp. minced garlic
½ cup fresh basil leaves
Process until smooth and then blend in ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese. Enjoy as a veggie dip, sandwich spread, or topping on French bread toasts with diced tomatoes.
Lemon Sunflower Pesto:In a food processor, combine:
2 cups packed basil leaves
2 crushed garlic cloves
½ cup shelled sunflower seeds
¼ cup olive oil
2 Tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup crushed red pepper (optional)
¼ cup parmesan or romano (stronger flavor) cheese
Add to pasta, or spread on chicken or fish before baking.
Whole-grain Basil Bread:
In a small bowl, dissolve a packet of yeast (1¼ oz) in one cup warm water, and let stand.
In a food processor, pulse:
1 cup packed basil
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp honey
1 tsp garlic powder
Combine yeast and basil mixture with:
3 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup whole oats
Knead in to dough, and let rise, about an hour. Bake 30 to 35 minutes at 375 degrees.
(For a fabulous pizza crust, eliminate the oats and reduce both the honey and the oil to 1 tsp.)
Orange Basil Sorbet:In a large saucepan, combine:
2 cups fruit-only or all-natural orange marmalade
2 cups fresh orange juice
3 cups water
Bring to a boil, and then reduce heat and simmer until smooth and syrupy.
When cool, stir in ¼ cup finely chopped sweet basil. Mix syrup in with a blender of ice, until desired consistency.
Serve immediately. (syrup can be made ahead of time, and then blended at the last minute)
Are you also interested in a Basil Applesauce Cake??? One of the best cakes I’ve ever tasted. Recipe is lengthy, but if you are interested, I'd love to send it to your email... just let me know!!!!
