
Delicious Recipes to Salvage Your Trader Joe’s Basil (Post-Recall)
In April, Trader Joe’s issued a recall of certain basil products due to potential Salmonella contamination. If you purchased affected basil, it’s crucial to follow the recall instructions: dispose of the basil immediately or return it to Trader Joe’s for a full refund. Do not consume recalled basil.
However, if you purchased basil from Trader Joe’s before the recall dates and have been safely storing it, or you’ve sourced fresh basil from a different, uncontaminated source, you might be looking for delicious ways to use it. Basil is a versatile herb, adding a bright, fresh flavor to countless dishes. This article provides a range of recipes to help you make the most of your basil, ensuring it’s used in safe and delectable ways.
Important Safety Note
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s reiterate the importance of food safety. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling food. Ensure your cutting boards and utensils are clean. When in doubt, discard any basil that shows signs of spoilage (wilting, discoloration, mold) or if you suspect it might be from the recalled batches. Refer to official recall notices for specific dates and product codes to confirm if your purchased basil is part of the recall.
Recipe Ideas for Using Fresh Basil
These recipes assume you are using fresh basil that is confirmed to be safe for consumption. Remember to adjust quantities to your liking and availability of ingredients.
1. Classic Pesto Genovese
Pesto is perhaps the most iconic basil recipe. It’s incredibly versatile and can be used as a pasta sauce, spread on sandwiches, or as a marinade for chicken or fish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the basil: Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry. Remove any thick stems.
- Toast the pine nuts (optional): Toasting the pine nuts enhances their flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden. Watch them carefully, as they can burn quickly. Alternatively, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown.
- Combine ingredients: In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and minced garlic.
- Process until smooth: Pulse the food processor until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
- Add olive oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally.
- Season: Season the pesto with salt and pepper to taste.
- Store: Store the pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent oxidation (browning), pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top of the pesto before sealing. Pesto can also be frozen in ice cube trays for longer storage.
Tips and Variations:
- For a creamier pesto, add a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or ricotta cheese.
- Substitute walnuts or almonds for pine nuts for a more affordable alternative.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- For a vegan pesto, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese and omit the dairy.
- If the pesto is too thick, add more olive oil or a little bit of water to thin it out.
2. Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad is a simple yet elegant Italian salad featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves. It’s a perfect appetizer or light lunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange ingredients: Arrange the mozzarella and tomato slices alternately on a platter.
- Add basil: Tuck fresh basil leaves between the mozzarella and tomato slices.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add balsamic glaze (optional): Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Serve: Serve immediately or chill for a short time before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- Use heirloom tomatoes for a more colorful and flavorful salad.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
- Marinate the mozzarella in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before assembling the salad.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping in the olive oil.
- For a Caprese skewers, thread mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves onto skewers.
3. Basil-Infused Olive Oil
Infusing olive oil with basil is a simple way to add flavor to your cooking. Use it for drizzling over salads, dipping bread, or as a finishing oil for pasta and grilled meats.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 clove garlic, lightly crushed (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the basil: Wash the basil leaves thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the olive oil, basil leaves, and garlic (if using).
- Heat gently: Heat the mixture over low heat for 5-10 minutes, until the basil leaves have wilted and the oil is fragrant. Be careful not to boil the oil.
- Cool and steep: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool completely. Allow the basil to steep in the oil for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a stronger flavor.
- Strain: Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the basil leaves and garlic.
- Store: Store the basil-infused olive oil in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It will keep for several weeks.
Tips and Variations:
- Use other herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano, in combination with basil.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make sure the basil leaves are completely dry before infusing the oil to prevent spoilage.
- For a quicker infusion, use dried basil instead of fresh.
4. Margherita Pizza
Margherita pizza is a classic Neapolitan pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. It’s a simple and delicious way to showcase the flavor of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
- Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- Tomato sauce
- Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to the highest temperature possible, ideally with a pizza stone inside.
- Prepare the dough: Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape.
- Add tomato sauce: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the dough.
- Add mozzarella: Arrange the mozzarella slices over the tomato sauce.
- Bake: Bake the pizza for 8-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add basil: Remove the pizza from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Slice and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations:
- Use San Marzano tomatoes for the tomato sauce for the best flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano cheese for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different types of mozzarella cheese, such as buffalo mozzarella or fresh burrata.
- For a spicier pizza, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce.
5. Basil Lemonade
Basil lemonade is a refreshing and flavorful twist on classic lemonade. The basil adds a subtle herbaceous note that complements the tartness of the lemon.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup lemon juice (from about 6-8 lemons)
- 4 cups cold water
Instructions:
- Make basil simple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the basil leaves, 1 cup of water, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes.
- Strain: Strain the basil simple syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the basil leaves.
- Combine ingredients: In a pitcher, combine the basil simple syrup, lemon juice, and 4 cups of cold water.
- Stir: Stir well to combine.
- Chill: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Serve over ice, garnished with fresh basil leaves and lemon slices.
Tips and Variations:
- Use a different sweetener, such as honey or agave nectar, instead of sugar.
- Add other herbs, such as mint or rosemary, to the simple syrup.
- For a sparkling lemonade, use sparkling water instead of still water.
- Add a splash of vodka or gin for an adult beverage.
6. Tomato Basil Soup
Tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. Fresh basil adds a bright and aromatic touch.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add tomatoes and broth: Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer: Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
- Add basil: Stir in the fresh basil leaves and heavy cream (if using).
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a dollop of sour cream or yogurt (optional).
Tips and Variations:
- Roast the tomatoes before making the soup for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Garnish with croutons or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Add other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini, to the soup.
7. Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
Basil chicken stir-fry is a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor. The basil adds a fresh and aromatic touch to the dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Marinate chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Stir-fry chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the red bell pepper and broccoli florets and stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, oyster sauce, and sugar. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and bring to a simmer.
- Combine ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Add basil: Stir in the fresh basil leaves.
- Serve: Serve immediately over cooked rice.
Tips and Variations:
- Use other vegetables, such as carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms, in the stir-fry.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use a different protein, such as shrimp or tofu, instead of chicken.
- Serve with noodles instead of rice.
8. Basil Vinaigrette
A basil vinaigrette is a flavorful and versatile dressing that can be used on salads, grilled vegetables, or as a marinade for chicken or fish.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the basil leaves, olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and garlic.
- Blend: Blend until smooth.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Tips and Variations:
- Use a different type of vinegar, such as balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar.
- Add a touch of sweetness with a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
- Use other herbs, such as parsley or chives, in combination with basil.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
9. Basil Butter
Basil butter is a simple and flavorful compound butter that can be used to enhance the flavor of grilled meats, vegetables, or bread.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped basil leaves, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Mix: Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape: Place the butter mixture on a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape into a log.
- Chill: Wrap tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
- Serve: Slice the basil butter into rounds and serve on grilled meats, vegetables, or bread.
Tips and Variations:
- Use salted butter instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the amount of salt added.
- Add other herbs, such as parsley or chives, to the butter.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
10. Vietnamese Summer Rolls with Basil
Vietnamese summer rolls are a light and refreshing appetizer or snack filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, and protein. Basil adds a fragrant and aromatic touch.
Ingredients:
- Rice paper wrappers
- Cooked shrimp, sliced in half lengthwise
- Rice vermicelli noodles, cooked
- Shredded carrots
- Shredded lettuce
- Cucumber, julienned
- Fresh mint leaves
- Fresh basil leaves
- Peanut sauce, for dipping
Instructions:
- Prepare ingredients: Prepare all of the ingredients before you start assembling the rolls. Cook the rice vermicelli noodles according to package directions. Slice the shrimp in half lengthwise. Shred the carrots and lettuce. Julienne the cucumber.
- Soften rice paper: Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for a few seconds, until it becomes pliable.
- Assemble roll: Lay the softened rice paper wrapper on a flat surface. Arrange a few shrimp halves, rice vermicelli noodles, shredded carrots, shredded lettuce, cucumber, mint leaves, and basil leaves in the center of the wrapper.
- Roll: Fold the sides of the wrapper over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom up.
- Repeat: Repeat with the remaining rice paper wrappers and filling.
- Serve: Serve immediately with peanut sauce for dipping.
Tips and Variations:
- Use other vegetables, such as bean sprouts or bell peppers, in the summer rolls.
- Add tofu or grilled chicken instead of shrimp.
- Make sure the rice paper wrappers are completely softened before rolling, but don’t soak them for too long or they will become too sticky.
- If the rice paper wrappers tear, simply use another wrapper to wrap the roll again.
Staying Informed About Recalls
Food recalls are an unfortunate reality, and it’s important to stay informed to protect your health. Here are some resources to help you stay up-to-date on food recalls:
- FDA (Food and Drug Administration): The FDA website has a dedicated section for recalls, market withdrawals, and safety alerts: FDA Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts
- USDA (United States Department of Agriculture): If the recall involves meat, poultry, or eggs, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) will issue a public health alert: USDA FSIS Recalls and Public Health Alerts
- Trader Joe’s Website: Trader Joe’s typically posts recall information on their website’s homepage or in a dedicated recall section.
- News Outlets: Major news organizations and food safety websites often report on food recalls.
- Email Alerts: Sign up for email alerts from the FDA or USDA to receive notifications about recalls directly in your inbox.
Conclusion
While the Trader Joe’s basil recall was a serious matter, it doesn’t mean you have to give up on enjoying the fresh, vibrant flavor of basil altogether. By sourcing your basil from safe and reliable sources and practicing proper food safety, you can confidently incorporate this versatile herb into your cooking. These recipes offer a wide range of possibilities, from classic pesto and Caprese salad to more adventurous dishes like basil lemonade and Vietnamese summer rolls. So, get creative and enjoy the deliciousness of basil in your culinary creations!