Basil Delivery or Pickup

Many people talk about basil as if it's one thing. In reality, there could be as many as 150 different species of basil. When we talk about basil for cooking, though, we are largely referencing sweet basil. The basil plant is a member of the mint family. Culinary basil has overtones of pepper, but many people say it also has a distinctive sweetness to it.

Basil plays a particularly central role in Italian cooking, adding unique flavors to tomato and pesto sauce as well as other items. The leaves of basil can be sprinkled directly on top of pizza, serving as a complement to pepperoni or other favorite toppings. In addition to Italian foods, basil is common in Asian dishes that feature meat and vegetables. It is also good as a topping on salads. Some people will even use basil to brew tea, as many believe it provides an energy pick-me-up. Pour boiling water over basil leaves, let them steep for about 10 minutes, and then drain.

Nutritionally, basil is known to be high in vitamin K and manganese; it is also rich in vitamin A and vitamin C, as well as calcium, iron, folate, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Some strongly believe this herb helps support brain function, reduce pain from arthritis, manage stress, fight cancer, and aid in eye health. Basil is an ancient herb that traces its origins back more than 5,000 years ago to India. It is widely viewed as an element of alternative medicine, with some articles discussing basil oil as an antidote for snake bites and other uses.

What is the key to picking out the freshest basil at the supermarket? First, look at the leaves. These are typically shaped like an oval, offer a glossy sheen, and present with edges that are either smooth or show a toothed appearance. It's important to inspect the basil you select because the herb is averse to frost. It likes warm climates the best; however, too much heat can cause the basil to degrade with wilt or mildew. Avoid any basil that shows black spots; it's a key signal of over-exposure to heat.

If you are someone with a green thumb and looking to purchase basil plants from the supermarket, one tip is to be sure to separate them once you get them at home. With enough space to establish themselves, you can grow fresh basil for months at a time.

Freshly plucked leaves of basil will have a relatively short shelf life. You can keep them in the refrigerator for a couple of days in plastic bags. You can also put the leaves into a glass, jar, or vase of water, gently placing the tips of the stems in the water. With the right storage techniques, freshly cut basil can last about a week.