Today in Sesame Street.......

Today we will learn about some wonderful natural vegetation starting with the letter...........B.

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...............and now back to our featured presentation.

The green stuff of the day is... BASIL.

(Ocimum basilicum)

Who Eats this stuff Anyway?

This tender low growing herb is a member of the Mint family. Commonly used in Italian cuisine as well as in South East Asia. That which is used in Italian food is typically called sweet basil, as opposed to Thai basil, lemon basil and holy basil, which are used in Asia. While most common varieties of basil are treated as annuals, some are perennial in warm, tropical climates. (Grow it in your back yard to save on killer prices at Grocery store) 

Eat to a Healthier you.

Basil is an excellent source of a variety of key nutrients, particularly vitamin C, calcium, vitamin A and phosphorus.  Furthermore, basil is a useful source of magnesium, potassium and iron.

......Wait, there is more.....This herb is believed to have significant health effects, particularly in improving cardiovascular health.  Furthermore, basil is a particularly good source of vitamin A, which is a key nutrient for strong eyesight, plus healthy skin and hair.  Basil contains high concentrations of carotenoids such as beta carotene, and these substances are converted to vitamin A in the body.  Beta carotene offers even stronger benefits than vitamin A alone, and it is known to be a powerful antioxidant.

Please use a fork.

How does one enjoy this flavorful herb you might ask. Simple, one of my favorite ways to eat Basil is in Pesto, a simple Italian dish. See recipe below.

(I usually use a box of tri-colored Rotini noodles, the twists in the pasta help trap in the Pesto sauce and lock in the full flavor.)

Basil (fresh from the garden or store) - Roughly 4 cups

Parsley -  1/2-1 cup

Parmasan cheese - 1/3-1/2 cup

Walnuts, handful

garlic - to taste, 3-4-5-6 cloves crushed

olive oil - depends on how much basil you use. enough to make it moist. 

Boil water to make noodles 

and in food processor add above listed ingredients and pummel into a paste. Will be lumpy, but should be moist enough to pour over noodles (spatula helps) Fold sauce into noodles top with Feta cheese and enjoy. 

You can eat it alone OR goes great as a side dish with asparagus, mashed potatoes and grilled chicken. 

For the most satisfaction enjoy with Friends and Family

BUON APPETITO