Basil Madness...

I spend a lot of time in the winter thinking of fresh summer vegetables and herbs. I am grateful for our preserved garden goods, but fresh sweet basil and garlic are hands down so much more delectable! So, without further adieu... let me introduce you to the yum-masters of summer …

And what to do with these twin loves? Some of my quick recipes...

PASTA SALAD W/ ROASTED TOMATOES, GRILLED ZUCCHINI
Penne Pasta
Zucchini – grilled
Tomatoes – grilled
½ cup Kalamata Olives
½ Cup Chopped Fresh Basil
¾ Cup Xtra Virgin Olive Oil
¼ Cup Balsamic Vinegar
3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
1 tsp. Honey
Sea Salt
2 Cups grated Parmesan

Cook Pasta, grill zukes and toms, toss all items together – Voila!


PESTO
Bunch of Basil
¼ Bunch of Parsley
½ Cup Xtra Virgin Olive Oil
¼ Cup White Wine (or more olive oil)
¼ Cup chopped nuts (pine or walnut or almonds...)
3 Cloves Garlic, Minced
1 Cup shredded Parmesan
1 Tsp. Hot Pepper Flakes (optional)

Blend together in a food processor and slather on pasta, or sour dough bread, or mozerella cheese, or grilled chicken, or veggies...

And some more favorites - just follow the links...

Drunken Noodles

Bruschetta

Spicy Cucumber Salad