The flavors of Spain and Italy shine in this easy and elegant sandwich. We love that this recipe maintains the complete integrity of the essential oil, as it is used in a raw application. Our cheese of choice is one made from sheep raised on La Mancha in Spain. Manchego has a wonderful nuttiness and texture which plays splendidly with the piquant flavor profile of the Basil essential oil.
 
Health Highlights

Peppers: This vibrant vegetable includes an antioxidant known as lycopene, which fights against free radicals and might help prevent certain types of cancer—particularly prostate cancer in men.[1]


Garlic: According to the National Library of Medicine, garlic can be helpful for conditions regarding the blood system and heart, like high cholesterol, heart attacks, heart disease, and hypertension.[2]

Rocket: Adequate amounts of iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and manganese are found in Rocket, which can help support a healthy immune system. A stronger immune system makes it easier to fight off colds or the flu.[3] 

Basil Marinated Roasted Pepper and Manchego Sandwiches
serves 4 to 6
 
Marinade
3-5 drops Basil essential oil
2 tablespoons truffle oil or extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
 
Sandwich
4 whole roasted peppers (either homemade or jarred)
1 large loaf ciabatta bread, halved horizontally
1 12-ounce wedge Manchego cheese at room temperature
2 cups baby rocket
  
Directions:

1. Add truffle oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, pepper, and Basil essential oil to a small, flat-bottomed container.
2. Whisk to combine.
3. Add peppers to the mixture and swill around in marinade until peppers are thoroughly coated.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors some time to develop. 
5. To assemble the sandwiches, first add a layer of arugula, then a layer of Manchego, then the roasted peppers.
6. Top with more arugula and drizzle with the marinade.
7. Top with the top half of the ciabatta and cut into individual servings. 

Variations:
Cheeses:
Burrata
Fresh Mozzarella
Goat cheese
Greek Graveria
Herbed cream cheese
Thinly Sliced Feta

or give a Vegan Cheese a try. 
 
Don't have Basil, try using one of these oils instead:

Rosemary
Thyme
Marjoram
Oregano

Essential Oil Spotlight

Basil has a warm, spicy, yet herbal aroma known to reduce anxious feelings.

Basil provides great benefits to both the mind and body due to its high linalool content, making it an ideal application to help reduce feelings of tension when applied to the temples and back of the neck.

​ Basil is commonly used in cooking to add a fresh, herbal flavor to meats, pastas, and entrée dishes, and it is also cooling to the skin. The aroma of Basil helps promote a sense of focus and a stress-relieving experience.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Let us know what you think to this recipe in the comments below. Would you change or add anything?