Basil Pesto
Uniquely fragrant and enjoyed worldwide, basil is the workhorse of the culinary herbs. It is widely used to complement tomato-based dishes, but basil is also the star ingredient in many curries, stir-frys and even desserts.
How to store fresh basil
As with other fresh herbs, treat your living basil with care. You can wrap fresh basil in a damp paper towel and store in the crisper, or place a basil bunch in water and cover with plastic in the fridge. Fresh basil can also be frozen - whole or chopped - in airtight containers.
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Recipes
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Basil Salmon
Salmon and dill have been a culinary pair for so long that it's time to introduce the fish to another herb just as complementary — basil. Thi... -
Cherry Tomatoes with Fresh Basil
Divide tomatoes among 4 greased pieces of foil. Sprinkle basil evenly over each. Fold up foil loosely around tomatoes and seal tightly to form ... -
Lemon and Fresh Basil Ice
Heat water in a saucepan, add SPLENDA® Granulated. Once sugar has melted, remove from heat and allow to cool. Add lemon juice, z... -
Fettuccine with Tuna and Fresh Tomatoes
Fast, easy and fresh-tasting are the hallmarks of this pasta dish. Made with on-hand ingredients, it's perfect for a family meal on a busy evening.... -
Basil Pesto
There's just the right amount of pesto in each jar for four servings of pasta, tomatoes or grilled chicken or fish. Frozen pesto adds summer sunshine ... -
Basil Pesto for Pizza
In small dry skillet, toast pine nuts over medium heat, shaking pan often, until light golden, 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to food processor and let cool... -
Cannelloni with Fresh Tomato Sauce
Simple and straight forward, these light-tasting cannelloni celebrate the sweet dairy flavour of fresh ricotta cheese and intensely ripe harvest time ... -
Grilled Eggplant and Fresh Mozzarella Pizza
Look for fresh mozzarella and bocconcini cheeses in sealed bags or tubs of water at deli counters. For a delicious splurge, use buffalo mozzarella, a ... -
Rotini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
This no-cook sauce is so easy that this dish is ready in the time it takes to cook the pasta. Depending on the sun-dried tomatoes you use, you may nee... -
Sun-Dried Tomato, Cheese and Basil Pate
This special-occasion spread tastes richer than its calories imply. Press it into a pretty widemouthed bowl for serving and surround the bowl with lot... -
Burgers with Basil Mayonnaise
Serve with your favourite salad. -
Chicken and Melon Salad with Orange Basil Dressing
Crunchy cashews meets sweet melon in this meal-sized chicken salad. -
Wild Pickerel with Essence of Basil and Balsamic
In small saucepan, bring balsamic vinegar and sugar to boil, stirring. Reduce heat and simmer until syrupy, about 10 minutes. Scrape into small... -
Tomato Basil Wheat Berry Salad
In large saucepan, cover wheat berries with about 2 inches (5 cm) of cold water; bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 to 1-1/2 hours or ... -
Spaghetti with Roasted Cherry Tomato Sauce and Basil
Has your backyard herb garden left you with an abundance of basil? Take a break from pesto and try this rustic, herb-infused tomato sauce. -
BLT Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing
Dressing: In bowl, whisk together basil, yogurt, mayonnaise, vinegar, salt and pepper. Set asi... -
Fresh Tomato and Bean Soup
Simmering up a whole-supper soup is simple when you have canned vegetable stock and beans in your cupboard. Serve this soup with crusty buns, grilled ... -
Tofu Pesto Antipasto Salad
Serve this pretty layered salad with crusty bread for a light evening meal. If you're pressed for time or can't find fresh basil, substitute 1 cup (25... -
Basil Aioli Dipping Sauce
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Heirloom Tomatoes with Basil
Peruse local markets for a selection of tomatoes in different sizes, shapes and colours. If you can't find heirloom tomatoes, don't worry – t... -
Basil Butter
Serve with corn on the cob.
