Fresh basil can add such a hit of flavor to so many things: soups, grilled chicken, panini, or a fresh tomato and mozzarella salad. If you’ve found fragrant, fresh basil, or have grown your own, use it in this oil. Freeze extra oil in ice-cube trays.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh Parmesan cheese

Preparation

1. Place first 4 ingredients in a food processor; pulse 5 times or until pureed.
2. Add cheese; process until blended.

Cook’s Note

People ask all the time how to keep their basil green and fresh. When you buy a bunch of basil, trim the ends and place it in a glass (stems down) with an inch of water at the bottom. Cover the glass with a plastic bag and leave it on your countertop. You won’t believe how long it stays green.