Basil, whose name comes from the Greek word for “king,” is one of the most essential herbs in Mediterranean cousin. However, the origin of this herb is none of the Mediterranean countries. According to Wikipedia, “Basil is originally native to Iran, India and other tropical regions of Asia, having been cultivated there for more than 5,000 years.” No wonder that this herb is used in many dishes from India, Thai and Vietnamese cousins.
In fact, basil was brought by Alexander the Great during his expedition to India.
Recently, there are many kinds of basil seeds and plants available in stores. Yet, my most favorite basil is sweet and aromatic Genovese basil from Genoa region in Italy. This basil reminds me of summer and this simple, yet, delicious pesto sauce.
Pesto is not only tasty but also very healthy food. Basil is high in vitamin K, which helps a body absorb calcium and other beneficial minerals to improve the bones. Parmesan and Romano cheese are excellent sources of calcium. In addition, pine nuts are rich in Vitamin B1 and B3.
Since my basil pants are big enough to be harvested, I decided to make lots of pesto sauce. It can be tossed with pasta or used as spread on crispy bread. Also pesto goes well with meat and fish. It can be stored in a refrigerator up to a several days.
Ingredients (4-5 Servings):
3 bunch of fresh basil leaves
1/3 cup pine nuts
½ grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
3 cloves of garlic
A pinch of salt
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 lb linguine
Directions:
1. Wash the basil leaves and drain them well.
2. Add all of the ingredients in the blender or food processor to grind them until they become creamy.
3. Boil water in a large pot and cook the linguine for 8 to 10 minutes or al dente.
In fact, basil was brought by Alexander the Great during his expedition to India.
Recently, there are many kinds of basil seeds and plants available in stores. Yet, my most favorite basil is sweet and aromatic Genovese basil from Genoa region in Italy. This basil reminds me of summer and this simple, yet, delicious pesto sauce.
Pesto is not only tasty but also very healthy food. Basil is high in vitamin K, which helps a body absorb calcium and other beneficial minerals to improve the bones. Parmesan and Romano cheese are excellent sources of calcium. In addition, pine nuts are rich in Vitamin B1 and B3.
Since my basil pants are big enough to be harvested, I decided to make lots of pesto sauce. It can be tossed with pasta or used as spread on crispy bread. Also pesto goes well with meat and fish. It can be stored in a refrigerator up to a several days.
Ingredients (4-5 Servings):3 bunch of fresh basil leaves
1/3 cup pine nuts
½ grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
3 cloves of garlic
A pinch of salt
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 lb linguine
Directions:
1. Wash the basil leaves and drain them well.
2. Add all of the ingredients in the blender or food processor to grind them until they become creamy.
3. Boil water in a large pot and cook the linguine for 8 to 10 minutes or al dente.
4. Toss and mix the linguine with the pesto sauce. Serve with a piece of crispy bread!
Just the picture alone made my mouth water! I also had no idea that basil was high in vitamin, that was really interesting! I wanted to share something with you, since you seem to have an appreciation for food. It's called Chef's Diet; ever wonder if you could be eating healthier, but don't have time to shop for and prepare healthy meals? Chefs Diet is giving away a free month of nutritionally balanced meals whose ingredients are at the peak of freshness, plus a consultation with the premier doctor of nutrition at Chefs Diet. They not only prepare the foods for you, they deliver them to your door! Check it out at http://www.myChefsDiet.com
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