I hope all of my US friends enjoyed a fun and safe fourth of July celebration.I look forward to reading your posts.
Our Basil is growing beautifully and I have been enjoying its wonderful fragrance and fabulous taste. I add basil to sauces, use it for pesto, chop it and sprinkle it in salads and over fresh tomato slices. But, one of my all time favorites is to place a couple of large leaves, a tomato slice, a little salt and pepper and add it into the center of a grilled cheese sandwich. It is the yummiest grilled cheese sandwich you’ve ever tasted. Our grandchildren love it too! If kids will eat it you know it’s good. 
Picking basil- Look down the stem and locate the point where the stalk meets leaves on the side. Pick the stem and top leaves at this section. Leave the small bunches of leaves on the plant they will produce larger leaves. Picking leaves frequently will encourage growth. If you see your basil producing flowers on top (like mine in the photo) pinch these off. I have removed mine, I left them for you to see.
Storing Basil- Fill a jar with water, place the basil leaves ( keep longer stems for this way of storing) in the water and put them in your refrigerator ( they may droop at first but will freshen up quickly) they will stay fresh for 1-2 weeks. You can also wrap them in a slightly dampened paper towel and then place them in your fridge, they will stay fresh for about 1 week .If you have a dehydrator that is also and option, then store in an air tight container and it will last for up to 4 months.
Do you grow basil, or other herbs? What’s your favorite use for basil?
Have a great weekend! Next week I will announce the new giveaway!
Linking to-
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thank you hugs coming your way
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