A This and That Kind of Day

First my This:

Come January, I would beg and borrow for all this basil. Really, I do appreciate a nice leaf. This week, in spite of the construction on Monday and Tuesday, I plan to do some creative things with the surplus. I have some nice olive oil a recent blend from Italy. Sometimes I like the Spanish imports for saute or dressings, but my plan for this batch of basil is a simple emulsion, formed into small cubes, frozen for soups and sauces. I love the convenience. I pop them out of the trays and use the super silicone zip bags. They lie flat in the freezer and last up to a year. Quite frankly, they have never made it a full year.

The Vitamix is my friend. The silicone bags are available on Amazon and other retailers.

A large portion of the basil will be dried and stored in sealed mason jars. This keeps it fresh and ready. Mid-winter, a little sprinkle of dry basil on a quiche, on some steamed carrots, or baked potato casserole, Mama Mia! Husband's grandmother swore by cheesecloth topping the jar before the lids and sealing rings. I do this as well. Does it make a difference? Beats me!

And Now the That's:

• I recently read that mosquito's are less likely to bite if you are wearing white or a pastel color.
• In addition, they hate lavender essential oil.
• I was surprised to see one of my favorite vloggers, from Korea, on a recent visit to Paris, was thrilled to eat a 5 Guys hamburger and a Chipotle's something or other. Seriously, in Paris, eating American fast food?
• I am looking for a source for heavy duty canvas totes. Not the flimsy, wimpy ones.  
  
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  A little pearl Pastina in chicken broth with a saute of zucchini, red pepper, yellow pepper, green onion, dressed with a bit of Spanish olive oil. Paired with some wonderful Tuscan-style bread and fresh iced tea. 
  

Preessed Leaf Botanicals, HERE. 

Have you ever considered naming your house, HERE.