Basil is the April Harvest of the Month

The secret to the tastiest meals is often revealed by the herbs they’re topped with. Basil is a healthy herb used in a variety of dishes and sauces.

During the month of April, you may find basil used more abundantly in a variety of recipes from our cafeterias.

Did You Know?

  • Basil is part of the mint family
  • The essential oils used in tree basil and sweet basil can be used to repel some types of insects such as flies
  • It’s estimated that there are up to 150 species of basil
  • Green varieties of basil are widely available at stores; however, there are also purple varieties

Try These Delicious Recipes

Homemade Pesto
Caprese Salad
Spaghetti Squash with Tomato Basil Sauce

How to Buy & Store: You can buy basil dried or fresh. Fresh basil is usually located in the herb section of the produce aisle inside of a clear plastic container. Some stores also sell basil in bunches or as potted plants. Make sure the basil leaves are firm and fragrant.

Store dry basil in its original packaging and keep it away from direct sunlight. If you bought fresh basil that has the stems removed, it’s best to eat it right away. If the stems are still attached, you can fill the bottom of a jar with water, place the stems in the water (keeping the leaves dry), seal the jar and place it in the refrigerator; it should stay fresh for three to five days when stored this way. If you bought potted basil, place it by the windowsill, water it a little everyday and pinch off the flower buds.

Basil is considered an easy herb to grow in a garden or indoors by a window. Seed germination often begins within five to seven days if the soil is kept moist and the basil is kept in trays at a temperature of 75-85ºF.

Making it Kid-Friendly:

Some kid-favorite ways to eat basil include:

  • In tomato-based pasta or pizza sauce
  • Blended into soup
  • Fresh chopped basil on top of a frozen treat such as frozen yogurt  

Nutrition and Health Benefits: Basil has antioxidants, calcium and vitamin K. Anti-inflammatory herbs, such as basil, may help strengthen the immune system, boost the mood and improve cardiovascular health.

Calories: 1Protein: 0.2g
Total Fat: 0gFiber: 0.1g
Sugar: 0gVitamin K: 21mcg
Sodium: 0mgVitamin A: 14mcg

Serving Size: 2 tbsp chopped, fresh basil