| Basil - Ocimum basilicum Basil is a tropical member of the mint family. It grows well outdoors, but must be trimmed often to avoid getting a long stringy plant with just a few leaves at the top. As with chives it should not be left to flower and go to seed as the plant will die after that. Basil goes well with tomatoes, garlic and eggplant. And in a pesto makes a wonderful sauce for pasta. It is best used fresh, but it will keep in a jar with olive oil and a little salt. Keep whole leaves in the freezer to add to sauces. Basil in recipes: Pesto Pesto Palmiers Fusilli Vinaigrette Tomato & Basil Bisque Tomato, Garlic Crouton & Pesto Omelet Zucchini & Basil Filo Basil Vegetable Saute |