Home Grown

The kitchen has had a rather slow week, thanks to busy lives and full schedules. When you're cooking and baking for only two, it's easy to make an abundance of goodies that end up partially uneaten -- and this chef really doesn't like wasting good food. So I'm pacing myself, researching new recipes and ideas, and hoping that the summer months bring some friend or family get-togethers and the opportunity to whip up something fun and delicious (hint, hint).

Now, the kitchen may have stood empty more often than not, but that doesn't mean it's been off my mind.



Aside from her culinary skills my mother also happens to have an incredibly green thumb, and frequently shares her wisdom and enthusiasm. My little patch of garden will have delectable chive transplants soon, and possibly some mint if I can keep it from our local woodchuck. But for now, she's gifted me with my own little indoor herb set of two very useful greenies: basil and parsley. And of course, being my mother, this gift is not only functional but aesthetically pleasing to boot.

That's basil in the middle and parsley on either side. Not bad, huh?

What can I say, I'm a sucker for cute and useful. The basil (center pot) is growing nicely, and the parsley is trying valiantly to catch up. Don't mind the little mushroom in the dish, it snuck into one of the pots somehow and has been prudently removed.

Once these little guys mature, I'm anticipating some lovely fresh flavors and garnishes to add to some of the summer dishes I have in mind. It will be a nice change from the dried herbs I typically use. In keeping with my locavore mindset, it might even inspire me to grow other tasty plants to enjoy at home.

Do you grow your own herbs? What do you use the most? I'm open to suggestions!