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To me, basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow. Here are a few little tricks from our homestead!
Pruning leads to more basil.
Well-drained soil is good soil for basil.
Keep the temperature fairly warm with lots of sunlight (at least six hours a day)
Basil Pesto
Add this amazing pesto to your pasta, fish or beef. It is even great on bread as a dip.
Servings: 8
Calories: 183kcal
Equipment
- food processor
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup raw unsalted pine nuts cashews, or walnuts*
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 medium garlic cloves
- 2 cups loosely packed fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup olive oil plus additional as needed
Instructions
- In a small dry skillet, toast the nuts over medium high heat, stirring constantly, for about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the nuts to a bowl and allow them to cool slightly. (This step is optional, but brings out a more robust flavor in the nuts.)
- In food processor, combine the nuts, cheese, and peeled garlic. Process until finely ground, 20 to 30 seconds. (Be careful not to make the nuts into a "butter.")
- Add the basil, lemon juice and kosher salt. Turn on the food processor and gradually pour in the olive oil. Once combined, turn off the food processor. Blend in a bit more olive oil if desired, to achieve a looser texture. Stores for about 1 week in the refrigerator and several months frozen.
Notes
*Pine nuts are traditional but can be expensive. Both cashews and walnuts taste great in this recipe too. I have even used almonds.
Nutrition
Serving: 8g | Calories: 183kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 150mg | Potassium: 67mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 329IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 1mg
I do freeze dry some of my basil… But I also freeze some in coconut oil in ices cube trays and then keep in the freezer for when I need to add it to meat or other items.
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This blog post is shared on You're the Star Blog Hop, Friendship Friday, Simple Homestead Blog Hop, Homestead Blog Hop, Tuesdays with a Twist, The Farm Fresh Blog Hop Wonderful Wednesday
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Your pesto recipe sounds great. I will try it.
These are great basil tips! Thanks for sharing! I’m visiting today from the You’re the Star link up. Have a great week!
Great tips! Thanks for sharing this with us at the Homestead Blog Hop, please come back again soon!
I’m sure my hubby would like the recipe. Thanks so much for linking up with me at my #UnlimitedMonthlyLinkParty 17.
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment! I LOVE basil and using it in my recipes.