Basil-based Dishes and Drinks We’re Craving
By Claire Buss August 22, 2013
This article originally appeared in the September 2013 issue of Seattle magazine.
For a classic take on CAPRESE SALAD, head straight to CAFE FLORA, where Billy’s Organic Farm heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and a vibrant mix of lemon and Italian basil from Local Roots Farm are combined for a supreme summer salad. $10. Madison Valley, 2901 E Madison St.; 206.325.9100; cafeflora.com
Don’t bother with beer. This summer, order the refreshing ST. BASIL COCKTAIL at FEEDBACK LOUNGE in West Seattle, made with gin, lemon juice, St. Germain elderflower liqueur and freshly muddled basil purchased up the street at West Seattle Produce Co. $8. West Seattle, 6451 California Ave. SW; 206.453.3259; feedbacklounge.net
For IL CORVO’S CAPRESE RAVIOLI, chef Mike Easton infuses Italian flavor into the pasta itself by laminating basil leaves in between pasta sheets before rolling them out, then filling the basil pasta with fresh buffalo mozzarella and slices of heirloom tomatoes. You’ll recognize the shape of the basil leaf in the ravioli and taste the fresh herb, reminding you that summer’s still far from over. $9. Pioneer Square, 217 James St.; 206.538.0999; ilcorvopasta.com
Don’t fear the green hue in GASTROPOD’S THAI BASIL CHEESECAKE, made with two bunches of blended Thai basil and a crust composed of crushed fortune cookies. Chef Travis Kukull tops the grass-colored cake with strawberries or whatever fresh fruit is in season. $6. SoDo, 3201 First Ave. S, Suite 104; 206.403.1228; gastropodsodo.com