Today begins a series on Herbs and Spices. We'll start by discussing the differences of the two.
Herbs
Herbs are plants, but not all plants are herbs. An herb is a portion of a plant that can be useful as food, flavoring foods or as medicine with a therapeutic effect. Herbs are traditionally aromatic, as well as flavorful. Many herbs are mentally uplifting or have a physical effect. Lavender, for example, is aromatic and assists one in falling asleep. Rosemary is great for flavoring, is a powerful and fresh fragrant and is useful in treating poor circulation.
Herbs are very easy to grow in your own garden. Even this late in the season, you too can plant some herbs. Herbs should be planted close to your kitchen to encourage use. You can also plant herbs in pots and keep them growing indoors on your kitchen windowsill or counter top.
Spices
Black pepper has been used since the 17th century for the treatment of digestive gas, colds and coughs, other chest ailments and the lack of appetite. Modern herbal medicine uses black pepper as a digestive stimulant and an antibacterial remedy.
Try this seasonal and delicious recipe using my all time favorite herb.
PASTA WITH FRESH BASIL, TOMATO, AND
PARMESAN
12 oz. crinkled curls or other type of pasta
1/4 c. olive oil
2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 1/2 c. firmly packed chopped fresh basil
3 c. chopped very ripe Italian plum tomatoes
3/4 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Cook pasta in 4 quarts boiling water until very al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil and lemon juice. Cool to room temperature, occasionally stirring the pasta to coat thoroughly. Add chopped basil, tomatoes, cheese, and salt and pepper to taste to the pasta. Mix thoroughly but gently. Garnish with basil leaves.
Recipe courtesy of Cooks.com
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