Basil is one of those herbs that rewards even the most casual gardener. A few leaves here and there can completely elevate a dish, and that fragrant, slightly peppery scent feels like summer in plant form. It sure helps that it’s simple to grow in your own backyard!
When I first started gardening, basil was one of the first herbs I tried to grow. It’s forgiving, it grows quickly, and it thrives in sunlight. Before I knew it, I had more basil than I knew what to do with, so I decided to start experimenting in the kitchen. That’s when I realized how flexible in flavor this humble herb can really be.
Whether you’re tossing it into pasta, blending it into pesto, or adding it to something sweet and unexpected, basil adds brightness and depth to almost anything. Below are 15 delicious ways to use it, from the classics to a few creative twists you might not have tried yet.
1. Classic Basil Pesto
Let’s start with the recipe that made basil famous. Pesto is vibrant, garlicky, and perfectly balanced with Parmesan and olive oil.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup olive oil
- ⅓ cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a cheaper alternative)
- 2 garlic cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Blend everything in a food processor until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
You can put this on anything from pasta, sandwiches, grilled chicken, or as a pizza base.
2. Creamy Basil Alfredo Pasta
This is a rich twist on the classic Alfredo sauce that feels indulgent but fresh.
To make it, prepare your favorite Alfredo recipe, but blend in a handful of basil leaves at the end. The basil cuts through the richness and adds color and aroma.
You can use this with fettuccine or linguine, topped with cracked black pepper.
3. Basil Butter
This one’s simple and endlessly useful.
Mix softened butter with finely chopped basil, garlic, and a sprinkle of salt. Roll it into a log and refrigerate.
Add it onto fresh bread, grilled corn, or to top a sizzling steak for a refreshing herbal flavor.
4. Basil Lemonade
Yes, basil works beautifully in drinks too!
To make this lemonade, make a simple basil syrup by simmering equal parts water and sugar with a handful of basil leaves. Mix the syrup with fresh lemon juice and cold water.
Pair it with some warm bread or a bright salad for a perfect summer snack!
5. Tomato Basil Soup
It’s a classic comfort in a bowl.
To make it, sauté onions and garlic, then add canned or fresh tomatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer, then blend with a handful of basil for freshness.
Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich or garlic focaccia for a nostalgic bite.
6. Caprese Salad
Few dishes capture the simplicity of fresh basil like a Caprese.
To make this, layer slices of ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Eat it with warm, toasty bread or as a side for grilled chicken.
7. Basil Fried Rice
Give your fried rice a fragrant twist by stir-frying your veggies, rice, and soy sauce together, then tossing in a generous handful of chopped basil right at the end. Add a protein of choice, like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a quick weeknight meal.
8. Basil and Strawberry Syrup
This might sound unusual, but basil and strawberries are surprisingly harmonious.
To make this, simmer strawberries with sugar, a dash of lemon juice, and a few basil leaves. The basil adds a herbal depth that elevates the sweetness.
Drizzle it over toast, yogurt, cottage cheese, or cheesecake for a sweet treat.
9. Garlic Basil Chicken
This one is simple, hearty, and full of flavor.
To make this, marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, minced garlic, chopped basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Grill or pan-sear until golden.
Pair it with roasted vegetables or a side of rice.
10. Basil and Peach Bruschetta
This is a sweet and savory appetizer for any weeknight meal.
To make this, add diced peaches, diced tomatoes, and chopped basil into a bowl, then mix together. Scoop it onto the top of toasted baguette slices, then drizzle with a touch of honey or balsamic glaze.
This pairs well with white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
11. Basil-Infused Olive Oil
This is a kitchen staple that feels almost effortless to make, yet easily elevates your weeknight meals.
To make it, warm your olive oil gently with fresh basil leaves (don’t let it boil). Let it cool, strain, and store in a glass bottle.
Drizzle it over pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables or a fresh, herbal kick.
12. Basil and Pineapple Smoothie
Basil’s fresh taste brightens up tropical fruit perfectly.
For this, blend pineapple, banana, a handful of basil leaves, and coconut water or milk. Add ice for a refreshing finish. This is perfect for breakfast or for a post-workout refreshment.
13. Basil Pizza with Olive Oil and Garlic
This one’s beautifully simple, as it lets the basil shine.
To make this, top pizza dough with olive oil, minced garlic, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Bake until golden and bubbly.
This pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine or a simple salad.
14. Basil and Cucumber Water
Perfect for hydration with a hint of sophistication.
For this, slice cucumbers and toss them into a pitcher of water with a few basil leaves. Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours.
This is a refreshing beverage perfect for warm days or as a healthy hydrating drink.
15. Basil Ice Cream
Yes, it’s real, and it’s delightful. It might seem a bit weird to some, but the slightly peppery herbal flavor really shines in this form!
To make this, warm some milk, cream, sugar, and a handful of basil leaves until fragrant. Strain, chill, then churn in your ice cream maker.
Pair this ice cream with some lemon curd, fresh berries, or a drizzle of honey for a blend of flavors you won’t want to miss!
Final Thoughts
Part of basil’s charm is its versatility in cuisine. It can be the star of a dish or a subtle background note that brings balance. It pairs well with sweet, savory, spicy, and even tart flavors.
Once you start using fresh basil regularly, you’ll notice how much brighter and more aromatic your meals become. Whether you’re making pesto, layering it into pasta, or blending it into dessert, basil adds a touch of freshness that feels both grounding and uplifting.
Disclaimer: The recipes and nutritional content shared on this blog are based on personal experience and general wellness principles. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition. Please consult with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian before making any significant dietary changes, especially if you have allergies or health conditions.