Basil, Lettuce Leaf 'Tuscany'
Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil, scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum 'Tuscany,' is a distinctive and flavorful basil variety celebrated for its large, crinkled leaves that resemble lettuce. This annual herb, belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae), boasts a unique appearance and a robust aroma that sets it apart from other basil cultivars. Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil typically grows to a height of 18 to 24 inches, forming a lush and bushy plant with generously sized leaves that can reach up to 4 inches in length.
The standout feature of Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil is its broad, crinkled leaves that resemble the texture of lettuce, making it a visually appealing and versatile herb in culinary and ornamental settings. The leaves, when crushed, release a delightful fragrance with sweet undertones, adding depth to its culinary applications. Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil's adaptability to various growing conditions and its ease of cultivation make it an excellent choice for home gardeners seeking a unique basil variety with both aesthetic and culinary appeal.
In the kitchen, Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil shines as a versatile culinary herb. Its large leaves make it an ideal candidate for wrapping and stuffing, adding a burst of fresh basil flavor to dishes. Whether used in salads, sandwiches, or as a fragrant garnish, Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil brings a distinctive visual and aromatic element to the table. Beyond its culinary uses, this basil variety can be grown for ornamental purposes, enhancing gardens and landscapes with its lush green foliage and unique leaf structure.
The standout feature of Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil is its broad, crinkled leaves that resemble the texture of lettuce, making it a visually appealing and versatile herb in culinary and ornamental settings. The leaves, when crushed, release a delightful fragrance with sweet undertones, adding depth to its culinary applications. Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil's adaptability to various growing conditions and its ease of cultivation make it an excellent choice for home gardeners seeking a unique basil variety with both aesthetic and culinary appeal.
In the kitchen, Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil shines as a versatile culinary herb. Its large leaves make it an ideal candidate for wrapping and stuffing, adding a burst of fresh basil flavor to dishes. Whether used in salads, sandwiches, or as a fragrant garnish, Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil brings a distinctive visual and aromatic element to the table. Beyond its culinary uses, this basil variety can be grown for ornamental purposes, enhancing gardens and landscapes with its lush green foliage and unique leaf structure.
Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil (Ocimum basilicum 'Tuscany') thrives in specific growing conditions that support its large and crinkled leaves. Here are the key preferences for cultivating Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil:
- Sunlight: Tuscany Lettuce Leaf 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 crucial for the development of large, flavorful leaves.
- Soil: Well-drained and fertile soil is ideal for Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil. A loamy or sandy soil with good drainage is preferable. Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil before planting provides essential nutrients. 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. Use a watering method that directs water to the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage excessively.
- Temperature: Tuscany Lettuce Leaf 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 Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil, provide sufficient spacing between plants, usually around 12 to 18 inches apart. Proper spacing allows for air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
- 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 Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil. Pinch off the tips regularly to encourage branching and prevent the plant from flowering too early. This promotes a bushy growth habit and prolongs the harvest period.
One delightful recipe that perfectly complements the large and crinkled leaves of Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil is "Lettuce Leaf Basil Wraps with Chicken and Mango Salsa." This refreshing and flavorful dish combines the vibrant taste of basil with the sweetness of mango and the savory notes of grilled chicken. Here's how to make it:
Lettuce Leaf Basil Wraps with Chicken and Mango Salsa:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1. Grilled Chicken:
Lettuce Leaf Basil Wraps with Chicken and Mango Salsa:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large mango, peeled and diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Large Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil leaves
1. Grilled Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with this mixture.
- Grill the chicken breasts until cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Allow them to rest before slicing into strips.
- In a separate bowl, combine diced mango, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, lime juice, and fresh Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil. Season with salt and toss gently.
- Take a large Tuscany Lettuce Leaf Basil leaf and place a few slices of grilled chicken in the center.
- Spoon a generous amount of mango salsa over the chicken.
- Fold the sides of the basil leaf inward, creating a wrap.
- Arrange the Lettuce Leaf Basil wraps on a serving platter.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this refreshing dish.