Basil - 5 Ways to Use the King of Herbs

Coming home from the farm and picking up our CSA share, I could smell the freshness of the basil in our basket. It had me thinking about so many dishes I could make to use of every leaf of this wonderful herb.

The word basil comes from the Greek word for king and this herb really does top the list of favorites in our home. There are several types of basil. What we see in the stores and grow in our herb gardens is considered a sweet basil and is typically found in Italian foods. There is a Thai basil and a Holy basil, both of which are used in Asian cooking and have more distinct flavors - one more licorice and one more of cloves.

Here are some ideas for you to take advantage of the flavors of this wonderful king of herbs in your meals.

Lasagna: I always add fresh basil leaves in a layer in my lasagna. It imparts a wonderful, fresh flavor to the ingredients.

Sandwiches: How about a grilled turkey panini with provolone? Really good flavor and is so easy. Take a good ciabatta or Italian bread, a bit 'of low-fat mayonnaise, layer, turkey cheese, tomato and basil. Top with another slice of bread. Butter the bread slices and cut sandwiches grilled or fried.

Another sandwich add to this list, a grilled cheese. Use a warm whole wheat bread cut with a nice cheddar smooth, not too strong, in thin slices. Add a few slices of Roma tomato and fresh basil. Grill and enjoy

Pizza: I usefresh basil on pizzas even if I am not making the traditional Margherita pizza. It adds so much depth to a sausage, mushroom, and onion pizza. Also, grilled chicken pizza with a white sauce and some fresh basil - super combo.

Breads: Add diced basil to a garlic butter blend and sprinkle with a little grated Parmesan Reggiano before broiling.

Chicken: Saute chicken in a skillet with white wine, garlic, onions, and fresh basil. .Remove the cooked chicken and ¼ cup chicken broth. Bring to a boil, thicken with cornstarch/flour and water mixture. Adjust seasonings and serve as a wonderful sauce with the chicken.

Don't forget the traditional Pesto, which freezes wonderfully for a couple of months. As well as the great pick snack up from the appetizer table - fresh slice of Italian bread or a cracker with a slice of mozzarella, slice of fresh tomato, quick grind of cracked pepper and a basil leaf. That tray always empties fast.

Take this simple pretty leaf and give its rightful place as the king in your dishes.