Mr. McGregor's Farm Fresh Potted Basil
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum
Common Names: Basil, sweet basil, herbe royale, basilico and basilie
Description: Basil has a well noted licorice/clove flavor and sweet smell. It is a staple in kitchens world-wide. This variety is most commonly used in Italian dishes while other other cultivars are used throughout Asia and the Mediterranean. Basil complements sauces, soup, salads, seafood, pasta, chicken, beef pork and lamb. It can be infused into alcohol, to make lemonade or as an ingredient in mojitos.
Interesting Facts:
- Basil is native to tropical regions in Asia.
- Basil is considered an annual and is cold sensitive.
- Basil oil is said to have antimicrobial, antiviral and antioxidant properties.
The following table provides the nutritional information for 2 tablespoons of raw diced leaves (5.3 grams) provided by the USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 22 (2009):
| Carbohydrates | .14 g |
|---|---|
| Protein | .17 g |
| Iron | .17 g |
| Magnesium | 3 mg |
| Phosphorus | 3 mg |
| Potassium | 16 mg |
| Vitamin C | 1.0 mg |
| Choline | .6 mg |
