Sweet Basil

Sweet basil or Genovese basil, like other types of basil varieties, is from the mint family. Basil has been used for thousands of years as a food source, medicine, and in ceremonies. Sweet basil is the variety widely used in Mediterranean cooking as a tender herb. It has delicate leaves in green or purple attached to slim stems. The leaves are larger than other basil varieties.

Wash leaves and use in pesto, salad dressings, and salads. Italian basil pairs especially well with tomato. Layer whole leaves together with slices of mozzarella cheese, and slices of fresh tomato for a quick and easy snack.

Wrap sweet basil leaves in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag or reusable container. Bunches can also be treated like cut flowers. Simply trim the stems and store them in a jar or container with a little water in the bottom. Place a plastic bag over the leaves and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use.

Alternatively, you can chop sweet basil leaves and freeze the leaves in ice trays covered with extra virgin olive oil.