Left to themselves, the basil and parsley I planted when summer began have been relishing the rain and heat and are on a rampage to take over the vegie patch in the backyard. No fertiliser or pesticides, just tucked under the protection of netting propped up by an old mop handle (a nod to Nonno Anni!) 
The basil leaves overwhelmed the basket when I picked them. They appear just bursting with greenness and their fresh, strident fragrance filled the kitchen, and then the whole house it seemed. So, of course, it could only be pesto per cena, made the old way by mortar and pestle (thanks to Roger’s arm muscles!)
I usually love pairing orecchiette with basil pesto but there was none in the pantry so it had to be a mix of leftover fettuccine and pappardelle this time. Meanwhile, the pretty parsley flowers are dropping their seeds and more parsley is growing so it may be time for a parsley dish next, I think! Love the greenness of summer. Buona fine settimana! 
I’m still trying to get through it and have lost being able to taste and smell, (devastating to someone who loves cooking!) but I’m hoping these will return in time – fingers crossed. And I also still hold hope for this fresh, new year.
Zoë Boccabella 