Discover the Versatility of Purple Baby Basil in Your Dishes
Purple baby basil is a variety of basil characterized by its dark purple color and compact size. This herb is often used as a garnish for dishes as well as to add flavor and aroma to a variety of dishes. Purple baby basil belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which includes herbs such as mint and rosemary. Its scientific name is Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens, believed to be a variety of Genovese basil. This herb is easy to grow and can be planted in pots or in the garden. It requires well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and prefers direct sunlight exposure. Purple baby basil can be harvested throughout the year, though it is most flavorful when harvested before the plant flowers. Purple baby basil has a sweet and slightly spicy flavor, with hints of clove and cinnamon. It's perfect for use in pasta dishes, salads, soups, sauces, and marinades. It can also be used to make pesto, an Italian sauce made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, cheese, and olive oil. Purple basil has numerous health benefits due to its content of essential oils, vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds.
Varieties of Purple Basil and Their Characteristics
There are many varieties of purple basil based on their shape, size, and aroma. Some of the most well-known ones are:
- Dark Opal: has oval, curly leaves of dark purple color. Its aroma is sweet and spicy. It is commonly used to make flavored vinegars.
- Red Rubin: has lanceolate, smooth leaves of reddish-purple color. Its aroma is strong and spicy. It is one of the most decorative varieties due to its contrast with pink flowers.
- Purple Ruffles: has large, wavy leaves of bright purple color. Its aroma is soft and floral. It is one of the most striking varieties due to its leafy appearance.
Recipe: Quinoa and Purple Baby Basil Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped purple baby basil
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Rinse the quinoa with cold water and place it in a saucepan with two cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the water has evaporated. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, honey, and lemon juice to make the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the quinoa has cooled, add the walnuts, dried cranberries, grated carrots, red onion, and purple baby basil. Mix well.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure all ingredients are coated.
- Serve the salad cold and enjoy the freshness and flavor of the purple baby basil.
I hope you enjoy this delicious and healthy salad with purple baby basil!
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