Lemon Basil Snaps

Here's a great cookie from Southern Living magazine, November 2005. You don't have to use lemon basil, regular basil is fine..the lemon will come through with the zest and juice.

3/4 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon grated lemon rind
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/3 cup minced fresh lemon basil leaves*
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup finely chopped pistachio nuts
3 tablespoons sugar

Beat butter at medium speed with electric mixer until fluffy; add 3/4 cup sugar, beating well. Add egg and next 3 ingredients, beating until blended.
Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to butter mixture, beating until blended. Cover and chill 1 hour.

Combine nuts and 3 tablespoons sugar in a shallow bowl.

Shape dough into 1-inch balls; roll in nut mixture, and place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Flatten slightly with hands or bottom of a glass.
Bake at 350° for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool.

*Fresh sweet basil may be substituted.

 

Makes 3 dozen