Mediterranean Cuisine / Vegetarian Diet / Pasta Salad Recipe

Basil holds a special place in the heart of Italian cuisine, adding a vibrant and aromatic touch to countless dishes. Basil has become an essential herb in Italian cooking with its distinct fragrance and versatile flavor. It plays a pivotal role in traditional recipes passed down through generations.

The love affair between Italians and basil dates back centuries, with its origins deeply rooted in the Mediterranean region. The herb's strong association with Italian cuisine is not surprising, given its ability to elevate flavors and balance a wide range of ingredients. Whether used as a garnish, incorporated into sauces or as the star ingredient in pesto, basil brings a delightful herbal note that enhances the overall dining experience.

Beyond its culinary prowess, basil has also become a symbol of Italian culture and heritage. The aromatic herb is often grown in home gardens and balconies, nurturing a connection to the land and a sense of pride in traditional culinary practices. From quaint Italian villages to bustling city streets, the scent of fresh basil wafts through the air, inviting locals and visitors alike to savor the delights of Italian cuisine.

In this blog, we will explore the significance of basil in Italian cooking, delve into a delicious recipe that highlights the herb's flavors, and uncover the differences between three popular basil varieties: Genovese Basil, Cinnamon Basil, and Thai Basil.

Join us on this journey to discover basil's multifaceted role in Italian cuisine and its impact on the gastronomic landscape of Italy. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and gain a deeper appreciation for the culinary wonders of basil.

Basil in Italian Cuisine

Basil takes center stage in numerous iconic Italian dishes, showcasing its versatility and enhancing its flavor profiles. Basil's presence in Italian cuisine is a testament to its versatility and ability to enhance the flavors of various dishes.

Its historical significance, prominent role in traditional Italian recipes, and diverse culinary applications make it an indispensable herb in the Italian culinary repertoire. Here are some traditional Italian dishes that wouldn't be the same without the inclusion of basil:

Caprese Salad: A classic summer delight, Caprese salad celebrates the combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. The herb's peppery undertones beautifully complement the tomatoes' sweetness and the cheese's creaminess. At the same time, its vibrant green leaves add a visual pop to the dish.

Margherita Pizza: Originating from Naples, the birthplace of pizza, the Margherita pizza is a simple yet exquisite creation. Topped with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, this pizza pays homage to the colors of the Italian flag. The basil leaves are added just before serving, infusing the pizza with their distinctive aroma.

Pesto Alla Genovese: Hailing from the region of Liguria, Pesto alla Genovese is a special sauce made primarily from Genovese Basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. It adds a burst of fresh herbaceous flavor.

A Multi-sensory Experience in the Kitchen

Texture - soft, smooth, and delicate. When you touch a basil leaf, you'll notice its supple nature and the slight glossiness on its surface. The leaves are relatively thin and pliable, making them easy to tear or chop.

The sound of chopping fresh basil offers a crisp and satisfying experience. Picture the gentle rustling sound as the knife glides through the leaves, releasing the aromatic oils and filling the air with its distinct fragrance. The sound is light and refreshing, evoking a sense of culinary excitement and anticipation.

The texture of basil leaves and the chopping sound create a multi-sensory experience in the kitchen. They contribute to the overall enjoyment of cooking with basil, making it a delightful herb to handle and work with.

A Taste of Basil Diversity

Basil comes in various cultivars with distinct flavor profiles and characteristics. Here, we explore three popular basil varieties that you can find at LocAL Lettuce Heads.Farm: Genovese Basil, Cinnamon Basil, and Thai Basil.

Knowing the distinctions between Genovese Basil, Cinnamon Basil, and Thai Basil enables you to select the appropriate type for your culinary endeavors. Whether you want the traditional taste of Italian fare, the spiciness of cinnamon-spiced dishes, or the genuine flavor of Thai food, each basil type provides distinct appeal and culinary potential. These different basil types can enhance your meals and introduce your palate to a delicious adventure.

Genovese Basil

Flavor Profile & Characteristics

• Genovese Basil is known for its sweet and slightly spicy flavor with hints of clove and anise.
• It has large, dark green leaves that are soft and tender.
• This basil variety has a robust aroma and is considered the classic basil in Italian cuisine.

Uses

• Genovese Basil is crucial in traditional Italian recipes such as Caprese salad, Margherita pizza, and pasta dishes like spaghetti alla puttanesca and pesto alla Genovese.
• Its distinctive flavor enhances the taste of tomato-based sauces and complements cheese and garlic-based dishes.

Cinnamon Basil

Flavor Profile & Characteristics

• Cinnamon Basil has a unique aroma reminiscent of cinnamon with notes of cloves and citrus.
• The leaves are deep green, often tinged with purple, and have serrated edges.
• Its flavor is warm and spicy, with a sweet undertone that sets it apart from other basil varieties.

Uses

• Cinnamon Basil adds a delightful twist to both sweet and savory dishes.
• Its warm and spicy notes make it a great addition to fruit salads, herbal teas, infused syrups, and baked goods like cakes and cookies.
• It can also be used in savory dishes such as stir-fries, curries, and spicy Thai dishes for a unique flavor profile.

Thai Basil

Flavor Profile & Characteristics

• Thai Basil has a distinct flavor that is sweet, spicy, and slightly peppery, with notes of licorice and mint.
• The leaves are smaller and more narrow compared to other basil varieties, with a deep green or purple hue.
• Its aroma is robust and carries hints of anise and cloves.

Uses

• Thai Basil is a staple herb in Thai cuisine, often used in dishes like Pad Kra Pao (spicy stir-fried basil), Green Curry, and Tom Yum soup.
• Its unique flavor adds depth and freshness to spicy and aromatic Thai dishes.
• Thai Basil is often added at the end of cooking or used as a garnish to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma.

Arugula Pesto Pasta Salad

Serves: 4 servings - Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Salad

• 9-10 ounces Cherry Tomatoes
• 12 ounces Papa Vince Ancient Grain Busiate Pasta (Durum or Tumminia)
• 8 oz Mozzarella Pearls, or burrata torn into bite-sized pieces
• 1/3 cup hydroponic Genovese Basil - roughly chopped
• Trapani Sea Salt & freshly ground Black Pepper

Arugula Pesto

• 1 Garlic clove, peeled
• 1/3 cup Pine Nuts
• 2 1/2 cups fresh hydroponic Arugula, from LocAL Lettuce Heads .Farm
• 2/3 cup grated Pecorino Romano
• 1 1/2 tsp fresh Lemon Juice
• 1/2 cup Papa Vince Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Step-by-step

(1) Start by preparing the arugula pesto.

• Place peeled garlic clove, pine nuts, packed Arugula, grated pecorino romano cheese, and lemon juice in a food processor or blender.
• Pulse the ingredients until they are roughly chopped. While pulsing, slowly drizzle in some extra virgin olive oil. Continue to process until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
• Add salt and pepper to taste, then set the arugula pesto aside.

(2) Cook Pasta.

• Bring water to a rolling point and then add salt.
• Add the busiate and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside.

(3) Combine.

Combine the cooked and cooled busiate, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and roughly chopped basil in a large mixing bowl. Gently toss the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.

(4) Gently cover with pesto.

Add the prepared arugula pesto to the pasta salad and toss again to coat the ingredients thoroughly.

(5) Serve.

Season the salad with sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

As Main Course - Add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein.

Vegetarian Meal - Add grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.

Top the salad with additional pine nuts and grated Pecorino Romano cheese for added texture and flavor.

Garnish the salad with a handful of fresh Arugula leaves for a vibrant and peppery touch.

Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.

A Fragrant Finale

Basil is significant in Italian cuisine, acting as a foundational herb that adds a distinctive flavor and aroma to countless dishes. Its historical significance, dating back to ancient times, showcases its deep-rooted connection to Italian culinary traditions.

As you embark on your culinary adventures, exploring the world of basil opens up a world of possibilities. From classic Italian recipes to innovative fusion dishes, basil continues to captivate our taste buds and serve as a testament to the power of herbs in elevating flavors and creating memorable culinary experiences. Embrace the versatility and significance of basil in your cooking, and let it infuse your dishes with its unique charm and delightful taste.