Growing and Using Fresh Basil

Here at Gertens, we offer tried and true advice for growing and using fresh basil. Our mouthwatering fresh basil recipes won’t disappoint!

How to Grow:

Grow in a location with at least 6-8 hours of sunlight. Place outside when overnight temps are above 50° F. Water thoroughly as needed - DO NOT water foliage. Remove flower heads as they form.

How to Use:

Harvest when 3 pairs of leaves are growing on one branch. Rinse well, tear or cut to desired size.

How to Enjoy:

Eat: Watermelon Salad:
Chop watermelon & cantaloupe/ honeydew melon.
To chiffonade Basil: Stack 3-5 leaves, roll like a cigar and cut into strips. Toss with melon - Add together
Dressing: 2 tbsp virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup lime juice, salt to taste. Toss together & enjoy! (Blitz in blender with vodka of choice for delicious summer cooler)

Eat: Walnut Basil Pesto:
2 cups packed Basil
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup walnut pieces
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup grated Parmesean cheese
Process until fine almost smooth texture in food processor. Add 2 tbsps pasta cooking water before adding to pasta. Toss & enjoy.

Drink: Flirtonic:
5 parts tequila
5 parts tonic
6 pieces lime
3 tsp brown sugar
6 leaves Basil
Crush lime in sugar in glass add basil & bruise leaves. Fill glass with ice. Add equal parts tequila & tonic - garnish with lime and basil.