Description
Basil (Bicolor) microgreens have contrasting purple and green leaves. This two-toned microgreen stays true to its name with a striking appearance that lends visual interest to micro mixes and culinary creations. Similar to Dark Opal basil, but whereas Dark Opal is more variable in its expression of purple, green, and variegated leaves, Bicolor consistently shows green cotyledons (first leaves), purple true leaves, and no variegation. Bicolor has a sweet and spicy flavor. We recommend pairing with Dark Opal and Cinnamon for an attractive and flavorful Asian basil blend.
Basil is a common aromatic herb in the mint family, the same plant family as other nutrient-dense, beneficial herbs, including mint, oregano, and rosemary. The taste is sweet but savory, and just like the smell, it is peppery, yet ever so slightly minty. Basil, of course, is used to adding flavor to a variety of recipes, but what may surprise you is the many benefits of basil that make it well-known for its immunity-enhancing properties and is one of the most important medical herbs known today. Basil has vitamin A, K, C, and manganese.
Basil greens are best suited for raw applications as their delicate nature cannot withstand high heat. The mild and sweet characteristics of Basil make it ideal for incorporating into both savory and sweet applications. They can be used as a garnish on pasta, pizza, quiche, soups, green salads, and fruit salads. They can also add flavor to lemonade and fruity cocktails like mojitos, gimlets, or martinis or be combined into dips, dressing, and sauces. Much like mature basil, basil microgreens work well with many classic pairings including tomatoes, garlic, onion, corn, and mozzarella cheese, and also pairs well with blueberries, strawberries, apricot, pineapple, nectarines, peaches, watermelon, vanilla, lemon verbena, coconut, honey, ginger, cinnamon, and white chocolate. Here is a fabulous cherry tomato Caprese salad with basil microgreens recipe. These vegetables will keep 5-7 days when stored unwashed, in a sealed container, and in the refrigerator.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF BASIL:
- Contains disease-fighting antioxidants
- Anti-inflammatory
- Fights cancer
- Antibacterial Properties
- Antimicrobial Properties that fight viruses and infections
- Combats stress
- Fights depression
- Promotes cardiovascular health
- Supports liver function and helps detoxify the body
- Helps alkalize the body and improves digestion
- Acts as a natural aphrodisiac
- Protects from diabetes and metabolic syndrome
In addition to selling living microgreens to those of you in Lakeland, Florida, we are a seed dealer and we do have seed available for you, if you live in the US. We even provide grow kits, which we can easily ship so you can learn to grow this wonderful microgreen or you can send it to a family member as a gift.
SEEDS:
- Basil/ Dark Opal, Bicolor, & Thai: Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflorum
- For Microgreens & baby salad greens, herb gardening & more
- Resealable Bag – High germination rates
- Days to Full Maturity: 100 — Annual — USDA Hardiness Zone: 4-10 Annual Crop
- Our seed packets are intended for microgreen plantings and one packet in the appropriate seed density for one  5″x5″ container (approximately)
