Basil Salt

If you’re looking for a hostess gift, a small batch of basil salt is a surprising and useful foodie present. Show up with a small, attractive jar of the salt, some gorgeous heirloom tomatoes procured from your local farmer’s market or specialty shop, and a bottle of really good olive oil. I, for one, would be delighted.

Ingredients

1/4 cup (15g by weight) basil leaves

1/4 cup good quality flaked salt (such as Maldon)

Method:

Add the basil leaves and salt to a food processor and process until fine. Spread the mixture out onto a baking tray and bake at 225F / 110C / 100C Fan for 30 – 40 minutes, tossing halfway. Let cool, then give the mixture a final pulse in a clean and dry food processor. Transfer to a small jar. Keeps for a couple of months, or so.

The salt can be used in salad dressings, marinades, sprinkled on tomatoes or simply sprinkled over some good quality olive oil for bread dunking.