There are many types of basil. The most common is sweet basil, which is used in most recipes calling for basil. Opal basil is purple; lemon basil and cinnamon basil have green leaves and their aroma matches their names. Thai basil has more pointed leaves and a licorice flavor.

Paulette Mitchell, a culinary instructor, television personality, and the author of 10 cookbooks, is known internationally for her quick-to-prepare recipes with a gourmet flair. Her 15-Minute Gourmet cookbook series, including Chicken, Vegetarian, and Noodles, was awarded "Best Cookbook Series in the World" at the 2000 World Cookbook Fair in Périgueux, France in November, 2000. Her Complete Soy Cookbook was named "Best Health Cookbook" at the same event in 1998. Paulette's recipes will appear each day in this column, and she will share culinary tips and kitchen wisdom acquired over the years and through her international travels.