In season late spring: Basil

This herb favourite differs between varieties: larger leaves are sweeter, purple-leaved basil is especially fragrant, while Thai-type basil perfectly complements fish, beef and curries. Sweet basil, the most common, stores easily and is great for pesto (see 10 ways with pesto).

Buying

Having a basil plant is an ideal way to keep an ongoing supply. Buy one and transplant it to soil.

Storing

Store plucked basil in plastic bags in the refrigerator or place stems in water and cover with a plastic bag to last up to a week. Drying basil in bunches is another option – or oven-dry the herb. Basil preserved this way can last up to a year stored in an airtight container.

Nutrition

Herbs are rich in phytochemicals, chemicals found in plants that are good for our health, particularly antioxidants. Basil is very high in antioxidants, so it’s a great addition to the diet.

Using basil

Roughly tear (don’t cut) basil leaves just before using. Use basil raw or add the herb at the end of cooking so as not to lose its flavour. Basil enhances salads and savoury dishes: add flavour to stews, casseroles or pasta sauces.