BASIL
Few herbs capture the spirit of Mediterranean cooking quite like fresh basil. Warm, fragrant and unmistakably aromatic, basil thrives in the longer days of spring and summer, when it can develop its full flavour and essential oils.
We raise basil from seed each November, nurturing young plants before transplanting them into open soil where they grow strong and expressive. Harvested at its peak, basil is vibrant in colour and rich in aroma, before making way for coriander as the cooler months arrive — a natural rhythm that keeps our soil active and balanced.
Uses
Basil brings freshness and lift to countless dishes:
- Stir through pasta, risotto, or grain bowls
- Blend into pesto, dressings, and sauces
- Scatter over salads, pizzas, and roasted vegetables
- Pair with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and cheese for classic flavour combinations
Best used fresh, basil adds brightness and depth without overpowering.
Benefits
- Rich in vitamin K, supporting bone health and blood clotting
- Provides vitamin A and beta-carotene for eye and skin health
- Contains aromatic antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress
- Grown in living, regeneratively managed soil, supporting nutrient density and plant resilience
Basil nourishes both body and soil — flavourful, functional, and thoughtfully grown.
Storage
Basil prefers gentle care:
- Bouquet method: Stand stems in a glass of water at room temperature; loosely cover with a bag
- Paper towel method: Wrap in a slightly damp paper towel and store in a container
- Washed leaves: Dry thoroughly and layer with paper towel in a container
- Freeze: Blend with olive oil and freeze in ice cube trays for instant flavour boosts
Recipes
Homemade Pesto
Adapted from Low Tox Life FOOD by Alexx Stuart. This is a guide, not a rule — adjust to taste.
Blend:
- A generous handful of fresh basil
- 1 garlic clove (optional)
- ⅔ cup nutritional yeast or finely grated parmesan
- 1 cup roasted nuts (pine nuts, walnuts, or almonds)
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup olive oil
Enjoy as a sauce, dip, or topping. Store in the fridge or freeze into cubes.
Caprese Salad
Layer ripe tomatoes with mozzarella, basil leaves, and olive oil. Add olives if you like — simple and timeless.
