Basil

One of my favorite things about summer and gardening is basil.

More specifically..pesto.

The aromatic leaves can be used fresh or dried to add flavors or spices in stews, vegetable, poultry, vinegars, pesto and pasta dishes.

Aside from its culinary use, basils have medicinal uses. Basils have long been known to treat headaches, coughs, diarrhea, constipation, stomach aches, worms, warts and kidney malfunctions.

Pick basil leaves when young during summer. Freeze, dry or use to flavor herbs or vinegar right after picking or pack in jars of oil to preserve them.

Easy Pesto

In blender:

handful washed basil leaves, no stems (about 1/2c packed)

2 cloves garlic, peeled (more if you really like garlic)

1/4 c fresh parmesan cheese

cover with good quality olive oil (1/2- 3/4c)

Pulse until blended. Add sea salt and pepper to taste. Blend again. Spoon over warm pasta, or use as a dip for warm bread.

Delish.