08/03/2026
There are between 50-100 types of basil grown in the world and my husband is grateful that I only grow 5 varieties (our deck couldn't handle the load). Holy, purple opal, Thai, Genovese and lemon. The lemon basil came by way of hitchhiking with a totally different plant from a local garden center (thank you!) and proceeded to crowd out the original plant and take over the pot. So, I harvested some and made Lemon Basil Pesto the other evening. Tossed with some lemon flavored pasta from Trader Joe's and grilled chicken, it was a brightly flavored meal. Trying to find lemon basil in the grocery store is probably a difficult search but you can use Genovese basil and add some freshly grated lemon zest. This is very basic as I didn't want to add cheese or butter to the pesto. Just a note - I use walnuts whenever I make pesto - much less expensive than pine nuts and just as tasty. Here's a picture of lemon basil and then dinner. Here you go:
Lemon Basil Pesto
Yield: a scant cup
In a small food processor, place 4 packed cups basil leaves, 3/4 cup chopped walnuts and 4 garlic cloves.
Pulse into a rough chop. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 heaping tablespoon of lemon zest and 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil. Puree until smooth. If using within an hour, place in a small bowl, cover tightly and keep at room temperature. If using later, cover and refrigerate but let come to room temperature before using.