Top 5 things to do with with fresh basil

4 cups tightly packed fresh basil leaves (Wash first and pat dry with paper towels)
1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup extra virgin olive
1 clove garlic
1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Put all ingredients in food processor or blender until it reaches desired consistency. Toss over warm pasta.

Before refrigerating or freezing any unused Pesto sauce, cover with olive oil

If you are a gardener with lots of basil you probably have lots of tomatoes, too. I have an easy recipe:

2 medium ripe tomatoes chopped

1/4 cup tightly packed basil leaves

1 small onion chopped

6-8 green olives sliced

1 clove of garlic, chopped

Italian salad dressing made with basamic vinegar (I like Newman's Own)

Mix all ingredients together and cover with salad dressing. Serve with toasted italian bread. Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese before serving.

If you have an over abundance of fresh basil you can always sell it at your local farmers market along with any other herbs, produce or fresh cut flowers you might have. Keep the cost down for quick sales!

Share your fresh basil with a friend. I have always found that when you share your bounty with others they will usually reciprocate in kind. Need fresh chives for your next recipe? Your friend may not grow basil but have an over abundance of chives.

This is a great way to get to know that new neighbor. Just knock on their door and present them with some fresh basil, tomatoes and one of the recipes from above. You can make a new friend!

Spice up your summer bouquets by adding a sprig of fresh basil to your arrangement. The bright green leaves will add a nice contrast to the bright reds and yellows of summer flowers such as zinnias. The scent will freshen up your home!