Pruning Sage

I live in northern Ontario, on Lake Superior. I have a sage plant that bloomed last summer. Should I prune it back this spring, before its leaves come out?
Also, are there any types of kitchen herbs you would specifically recommend for this climate? My soil is very sandy, with full sun exposure. I would love to grow basil, but have not had a lot of success.

Pruning sage before the leaves come out should not harm it and will make it look much nicer when it resumes growth.
Basil requires very warm conditions to do well. Your climate is a bit cool even in the summer, due to the lake. Try planting basil in a large pot that you can take indoors in the fall and put the pot into a sheltered very sunny spot on the south side of the house. The heat reflected off the house just might do the trick.
Most other herbs do not require as much heat as basil and should do fine for you.