There are some flavors that just scream summer and fresh basil is one of them. But to have fresh basil this summer, you have to plant it now! Basil is a heat lover; other than that, basil is ridiculously easy to grow. Give basil some sun and good soil and you can pick leaves daily all summer long. And there are so many different varieties: Thai, cinnamon, lemon, licorice, dark opal, red rubin... If you're skeptical and think they all taste the same, think how wonderful a taste test would be! Don't forget to grow basil in this year’s garden.

To Tempt You Further:

• Grilled Basil and Tomato Chicken Breasts
• Lanie's Basil Shrimp With Orzo
• Basil Grape Refresher
• Thai Basil Tempeh Recipe

Photo: © Marie Iannotti (2008) licensed to About.com, Inc.