If I had a daughter I would name her Basil.

I actually have no plans to ever have children, but I thought that was a good Segway into talking about my love for the herb. It was not until a chef instructor of mine made a basil pesto for a wrap that I realized how much I really enjoy the flavor of basil. It is sweet, but it works as a compliment with savory flavors instead of taking over like sugar would do. I have also found that when basil can be used to make some of the best drinks I have ever had. For example, in school we made a basil/watermelon lemonade that I literally had to force myself to stop drinking. At my job, they make a martini with cucumber and strawberry vodka muddled with basil that with every drink gets more and more refreshing. I digress though, just know that if you have never given basil a chance, she will surprise you in the best way.