This fragrant basil syrup was originally developed for crafting sophisticated “adult” sodas, but its uses go far beyond beverages. Drizzle it over a strawberry-and-mozzarella salad, mix it into cocktails, or whisk it into a light vinaigrette for a touch of herbal sweetness. The subtle infusion of basil — with optional fennel and anise to deepen...Read More

This Fresh Basil Vinaigrette captures the bright, herbaceous flavor of summer in every spoonful. Lush green basil leaves are blended with olive oil, tangy vinegar, and a hint of garlic to create a vibrant dressing that’s both fragrant and refreshing. Perfect drizzled over mixed greens, grilled vegetables, tomatoes, or even grilled chicken, it’s a simple...Read More

There are many different methods for making basil infused oil, but I find this one works really well. It produces a deeply colored and flavored oil that will last in the refrigerator for 3-5 days before the flavor begins to drop off. It can be frozen for a month or two without much loss of...Read More

This Orange Basil Cream Dressing combines the citrusy brightness of fresh orange juice with the delicate sweetness of cream and the fragrant lift of fresh basil. Light, silky, and refreshing, it pairs beautifully with tender greens, berries, and mild cheeses like mozzarella—but it’s just as lovely drizzled over cold shrimp, chicken, or a crisp slaw....Read More

A Mediterranean twist on the classic Caprese salad, these Eggplant Caprese Packets transform simple ingredients—eggplant, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil—into a warm, melty, and deeply satisfying dish. Lightly blanched eggplant slices wrap around the classic trio of tomato, mozzarella, and basil to form neat little parcels that are gently sautéed until golden and...Read More

A celebration of summer’s sunniest flavors, this vibrant salad from Chef Rebecca King balances sweetness, salt, and herbaceous freshness in every bite. Juicy cubes of melon and crisp cucumber ribbons create a cool, hydrating base that’s perfectly complemented by tangy crumbles of feta and smoky bits of bacon. The real magic comes from the lemon...Read More

Few sauces capture the taste of summer as perfectly as classic basil pesto. With its vibrant green color, fresh herbal aroma, and nutty, garlicky richness, pesto is a staple in Italian cooking that has earned a beloved place in kitchens worldwide. Traditionally made in a mortar and pestle (hence its name, derived from the Italian...Read More

Gazpacho is the perfect way to celebrate late summer’s bounty of ripe, dry-farmed tomatoes, colorful peppers, cucumbers, and fresh herbs found in abundance at farmers’ markets. Originally from Spain’s Andalusia region, gazpacho was once a humble field soup, made by farm workers using what was on hand, a little olive oil, and no cooking at...Read More

Late summer on the Central Coast brings the best of the season — fresh, sweet corn, fragrant basil, and vine-ripened cherry tomatoes bursting with flavor! This vibrant salad celebrates the season’s peak flavors in the simplest way possible and comes together in minutes, making it ideal for picnics, backyard barbecues, or any warm-weather gathering.  INGREDIENTS:...Read More

Few herbs capture the essence of summer quite like basil. With its unmistakable aroma and vibrant flavor, basil is a culinary staple—especially in Italian cuisine. So beloved by the ancient Romans, it came to symbolize love and fertility. While sweet basil—the familiar green variety—is the most common, this fragrant herb comes in many forms. Purple...Read More