Ingredient of the Week: Fresh Basil

It’s somewhat late into the season of this week’s Ingredient of the Week- fresh basil- but there’s plenty of it to feature in all kinds of recipes.

Monday

When I can harvest from a whole backyard jungle of basil, I love to make some version of this Basic Basil Pesto.

Tuesday

Basil goes well in sweet things, too, like these Lemon, Lime, and Basil Cookies. The recipe makes a small batch and the dough comes together quickly in the food processor, so you can have fresh, delicious cookies without enduring long hours in the kitchen during the heat of summer. 

Wednesday

If you don’t mind spending a bit more time with the oven on, you can add fresh basil to a whole grain sandwich loaf like this Whole Wheat Cornmeal Bread with Basil. It's a great bed for tomato sandwiches or BLTs.

Thursday

Fresh basil is a great way to enhance any summer bounty. Of course it’s good with fresh tomatoes, but I love it in this Summer Squash Casserole with Basil and Onion, too.

Friday

Fresh basil with strawberries has become a popular combination and with good reason. I particularly like them together in these Strawberry Basil Muffins.

Sunday

And this Spicy Eggplant Dip with Basil and Mint is delicious with Thai basil, but any variety of fresh basil will work. It’s a great use of late-season eggplant, plus a good addition to your early fall tailgate party.

Next week’s ingredient: Apples!