Basil Recipes

Basil is a fragrant leafy herb known for its sweet, peppery, and slightly minty flavor. It is most often used fresh, where its delicate aroma can brighten tomato dishes, salads, pastas, sauces, soups, and grilled vegetables.

In recipes, basil is best added near the end of cooking or used raw to preserve its fresh flavor. It is essential in pesto, caprese salad, bruschetta, marinara, Thai curries, herb dressings, and simple summer dishes built around ripe tomatoes and olive oil.

While sweet basil is the most common variety, Thai basil, lemon basil, and purple basil can bring different notes to a dish. Use basil when you want a recipe to taste fresher, more aromatic, and more vibrant without adding heaviness.