Basil 'Greek'

Basil 'Piccolino'

Piccolino Basil, scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum 'Piccolino,' is a charming and compact basil variety prized for its petite size and intense flavor. This annual herb, belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae), offers a delightful addition to gardens and culinary creations. Piccolino Basil typically reaches a height of 6 to 8 inches, forming a small and bushy plant with bright green leaves that are highly aromatic. Despite its diminutive stature, Piccolino Basil packs a punch in terms of flavor, making it a favorite among those who appreciate bold basil notes in a conveniently small package.
The leaves of Piccolino Basil are small, yet they exhibit the classic basil characteristics, with a rich green hue and a glossy texture. The plant's compact growth habit makes it an excellent choice for container gardening, window boxes, or as an edging plant in herb gardens. The flavor profile of Piccolino Basil is intense and reminiscent of traditional sweet basil, making it a versatile herb for various culinary applications. Its concentrated taste makes it a perfect addition to salads, pasta dishes, sauces, and as a flavorful garnish for pizzas and appetizers.
Cultivating Piccolino Basil is a delightful experience for both novice and experienced gardeners. This basil variety thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sunlight. Regular pruning, such as pinching off the tips, encourages branching and enhances the plant's bushy appearance. With its compact size, aromatic leaves, and robust flavor, Piccolino Basil stands out as a charming and practical herb that adds a burst of basil goodness to any culinary endeavor.

Piccolino Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Piccolino') has specific growing conditions that contribute to its compact and flavorful growth. Here are the key preferences for cultivating Piccolino Basil:

Sunlight: Piccolino Basil prefers full sunlight. Plant it in a location where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Ample sunlight is essential for the development of its compact and aromatic leaves.
Soil: Well-drained and fertile soil is ideal for Piccolino Basil. Use a high-quality potting mix or amend garden soil with organic matter, such as compost, to ensure good drainage and nutrient availability. The soil pH should be in the slightly acidic to neutral range.
Watering: Basil likes consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Provide a watering method that directs water to the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage excessively.
Temperature: Piccolino Basil prefers warm temperatures. Plant it after the last frost in spring when temperatures have warmed up. Basil grows well in temperatures between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).
Spacing: When planting Piccolino Basil, provide sufficient spacing between plants, usually around 6 to 8 inches apart. Its compact growth habit doesn't require as much space as larger basil varieties.
Fertilization: Basil benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer and apply it according to the package instructions. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as this can lead to lush growth at the expense of flavor.
Pruning: Regular pruning is beneficial for Piccolino Basil. Pinch off the tips regularly to encourage branching and promote a bushy appearance. This also helps maintain the compact size of the plant.
Container Gardening: Piccolino Basil is well-suited for container gardening. Plant it in small pots or window boxes, allowing for mobility and flexibility in positioning.

By providing these growing conditions, you can cultivate a thriving Piccolino Basil plant. Whether grown in garden beds, containers, or small spaces, this compact basil variety is a delightful addition to herb gardens, providing concentrated flavor in a petite package.

A delightful and simple recipe that showcases the bold flavor of Piccolino Basil is "Caprese Skewers with Piccolino Basil Pesto." This appetizer combines the classic Caprese flavors with the vibrant taste of Piccolino Basil in a pesto sauce. It's a perfect dish for gatherings or as a light and refreshing snack. Here's how to make it:
Caprese Skewers with Piccolino Basil Pesto:
Ingredients:
For the Piccolino Basil Pesto:

2 cups fresh Piccolino Basil leaves
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Caprese Skewers:

Cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh mozzarella balls
Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Wooden skewers

Instructions:
1. Piccolino Basil Pesto:

In a food processor, combine Piccolino Basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts or walnuts, and garlic.
Pulse until coarsely chopped.
With the processor running, gradually add the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. Caprese Skewers:

Thread a cherry tomato half, a fresh mozzarella ball, and another cherry tomato half onto each skewer.
Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.

3. Drizzle with Piccolino Basil Pesto:

Drizzle the Piccolino Basil Pesto over the Caprese skewers. You can also serve extra pesto on the side for dipping.

4. Serve:

Drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze just before serving.
Arrange on a serving platter and serve immediately.

These Caprese Skewers with Piccolino Basil Pesto are a delightful combination of fresh, tangy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and the bold flavor of Piccolino Basil. The pesto adds an aromatic and herbaceous kick to this classic appetizer. It's a visually appealing and flavorful dish that's sure to be a hit at any gathering.