Basil - Greek - 1 bunch
 
Basil is an excellent source of vitamin K, a nutrient that assists in faster wound healing, and is a good source of iron to build the protein hemoglobin to transport oxygen through the blood. The aromatic leaves also contain vitamin A to maintain healthy organ functioning, calcium to strengthen bones, manganese to stimulate protein digestion, and antioxidants to provide anti-inflammatory properties to protect against free radical damage. Basil contains an aromatic fragrance and flavor due to essential oils such as linalool, methyl chavicol, and eugenol. Each essential oil will be found in varying levels in different Basil varieties, giving each type a unique flavor and scent.
 
Greek basil has a punchy, aromatic flavour, a little like fresh mint crossed with cloves. It's delicious in this easy pesto stirred with rich crumbles of feta, creamy walnuts and tangy black Kalamata olives. Toss with pasta, pile on top of jacket potatoes, or use to top slices of toasted ciabatta to make bruschette.
 
Fresh leaves attached to stems can be placed in a glass of water and lightly covered in the refrigerator, where they will keep up to one week.
Individual leaves can also be stored in between paper towels in a plastic bag, kept in the fridge for 2 to 4 days. For extended use, Basil can be frozen in airtight plastic bags. Basil can also be dried and used as a spice, but much of the aroma and flavor will be lost in the drying process.