Basil is an herb that anyone can grow, even if they don’t have a large garden space. A single plant thrives in a sunny kitchen window, providing plenty of flavorful leaves for your cooking. While many people associate basil strictly with culinary uses, this versatile herb offers much more. Here are 5 great ways to put basil to work in your home.
5 Versatile Ways to Use Fresh Basil
A Natural Anti-Inflammatory • Aid for Digestion • Elevating Everyday Meals • The Perfect Homemade Pesto • A Simple, Energizing Tea • More ...
5. A Natural Anti-Inflammatory
Basil contains eugenol, an active compound that offers natural anti-inflammatory benefits. This same compound is found in the essential oils of bay leaves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. While it can be helpful for minor aches, it's best to enjoy it as part of your regular diet rather than as a concentrated supplement. For more tips on nurturing your home garden, check out our guide to growing herbs indoors.
4. Aid for Digestion
Whether you snack on a few fresh leaves, stir it into a dish, or sip a cup of warm basil tea, this herb is a fantastic digestive aid. Basil is often used to soothe the stomach and help ease feelings of nausea. If you enjoy experimenting with different herbs, you might also like learning about the many health benefits of mint.
3. Elevating Everyday Meals
Basil is a cornerstone of classic Italian cooking, but its uses extend far beyond pasta sauce. Each variety, from Genovese to Thai basil, brings a unique flavor profile to your kitchen creations. Try sprinkling fresh leaves over roasted vegetables, baking them into breads, or using them whole to infuse olive oil with incredible flavor.
2. The Perfect Homemade Pesto
Pesto is a go-to favorite for quick, flavorful weeknight dinners. Making it fresh at home is remarkably simple and tastes better than anything you can buy in a jar. In a blender, combine: 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a twist), and 2 packed cups of fresh basil leaves. Pulse until smooth and serve over your favorite pasta.
1. A Simple, Energizing Tea
If you're feeling under the weather, a warm cup of herbal tea can be very comforting. Steep 1 or 2 chopped basil leaves in hot water for a few minutes. You can strain the leaves or eat them, and a touch of local honey adds the perfect amount of sweetness. It's a gentle, natural way to refresh your senses.
Related articles
Popular searches
recipes for an upset stomach unwaxed kitchen string Book Update, Part III: Recipe Testing is canning worth it 6 Finger-Licking Recipes for the Grill ... 7 Healthy Side Dishes to Try Today ... garde manger recipes Shrimp and Corn Chowder - a Soup Your Entire Famil... 7 Recipes Kids Can Help Make ... 7 World Exotic Foods Every Gourmand Must Try ...
Browse categories
Cooking Diy Gardening Beauty Love Fitness Food Apps Teen Perfumes Movies Music Paranormal Health Weightloss Twilight Shoes Parenting Makeup Skincare Money Inspiration Wedding Celebs Streetstyle Nails Running Lifestyle Fashion Travel Diet Hair Books Jewelry Funny Bags Mindfulness Gifts Desserts Interior Sleep Accessories Gadgets Baking Swimwear Bodyart
Likes, comments and replies are available on the full version.
View full article & comments →