Have you ever heard of Basil Salt? Recently in a forum I frequent someone mentioned putting basil salt on a garden fresh tomato sandwich–I was intrigued. It turns out that basil salt is not only incredibly easy to make, but tastewise it is a revelation. Who could have ever guessed something so simple would taste so delicious? I don’t know why this isn’t for sale in the spice aisle of every grocery store–but it isn’t. . . so you’ll just have to make your own!
The recipe is simple, and if you have your own garden fresh basil, it’s cheap too!
Simply take equal amounts of packed fresh basil leaves and salt (I used a good sea salt for this) and whir them together in a food processor until completely combined. I started with 1/2 C basil and 1/2 C sea salt. As you process it the salt will take on a green color and start clumping together from the basil juices. Next you have to dry out the salt either on a cookie sheet in a low oven, in the air if you have a dry climate, or in your dehydrator. This step is important–the basil is very wet so you can’t just package it up. The dried salt will be almost like a very crumbly clay–so I whirred it in my food processor again to get a fine, shakeable texture.
That’s it! Now you have delicious basil salt to put on, well, just about anything! Pizza, salads, vegetables, garlic bread, pasta. . . once you take a small taste you’ll be able to think of tons of things that would taste even better with a sprinkle.
Planning on making a gourmet food basket for a friend for Christmas, I think this would be a fantastic addition in a cute little mason jar or another pretty glass container that is inexpensive!
Reminder to self: pick up basil at Walmart this weekend! I love that they’ve started carrying such a range of new products lately. I found and bought Himalayan Pink Salt 2 weeks ago.
This looks so good! saved it!
This sounds absolutely delicious. I grow my own basil, so I’ll definitely have to give it a try.
I think you’ll enjoy it Kevin!
Sounds great! I already dried the basil from my garden for this year. I am going to experiment by using the dried basil with the salt.
It sounds too good not to give it a try!
Sound fabulous! I’m going to share this post with my herb and cooking-loving friend!
I’ve been making pineapple weed salt for ages and never thought to expand the idea to other plants. I can see a whole range of flavoured salts coming up in my pantry!
Sorry pineapple weed sugar not salt!
Ok, that makes more sense 🙂
This grander than grand! Can’t wait to try – moved this summer so no garden at all — but it’s worth buying the basil for this great a recipe! I’m going to try a farmer’s market this weekend — freeze warning out, so maybe someone has cut theirs back!