Basil was grown and loved, primarily in France, until recently. It's now become the most popular herb used in this country. Basil, garlic and tomatoes form an unbeatable trio.
Domestic basil is generally regarded as superior to imported basil, in part because the drying process in California has advanced to a very high level; the fresh, sweet basil flavor and nice green color maintains beautifully. Some customers prefer the European basil because of its light anise-like overtones. Others prefer the stronger domestic basil. Why not try some of each and decide which you prefer? Stop into the store and take a sniff. There is a real difference.
Lettuce is divine, although I'm not sure it's really a food.
Diana Vreeland
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