Sweet basil – the essence of summer, and the perfect addition to any dish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this fragrant herb is sure to elevate your cooking game. With its bright green leaves and pungent aroma, sweet basil is a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through the wonderful world of sweet basil recipes, exploring 18 deliciously aromatic dishes that showcase the versatility and flavor of this beloved herb. From classic pesto pasta to innovative twists on familiar flavors, we’ve got you covered with inspiration for any meal or occasion.
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta
A timeless Italian favorite, this recipe combines the freshness of basil with the richness of Parmesan cheese and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly made basil pesto (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pesto Recipe:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine cooked pasta, basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Toss until well combined and heated through.
3. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Salad with Fresh Basil
A classic Italian salad that’s simplicity itself, yet bursting with flavor. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together to create a perfect summer side dish.
Ingredients:
• 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic vinegar.
4. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh and at room temperature.
Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry dish that combines the bold flavors of Thai basil, chilies, and chicken for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and chilies to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in the Thai basil leaves.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Lemonade with a Twist
Elevate your summer sipping game with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade, infused with the bright, herbaceous flavor of basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slices and basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
3. Muddle the fresh basil leaves in the mixture using a spoon or muddler to release their oils and flavors.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Basil Lemonade over ice and garnish with lemon slices and additional basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, all on top of toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the toasted bread, then top each slice with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Basil Parmesan Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until lightly toasted.
5. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the skillet and stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and smooth.
8. Fold in the chopped basil leaves.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Basil Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with this simple and flavorful basil infused olive oil recipe, perfect for finishing dishes or making a delicious gift.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup good-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small glass jar with a lid, combine the olive oil and fresh basil leaves.
2. Stir gently to release the oils from the basil into the olive oil.
3. Store the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. After 24 hours, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids and reserve the infused oil.
Cooking Time:
– Infusion time: 24 hours
– Preparation time: 5 minutes
Tips: You can adjust the amount of basil to your liking and use this infused oil for salad dressings, marinades, or as a finishing touch for pasta dishes. For a more intense flavor, let it infuse for up to 48 hours.
Strawberry Basil Sorbet
Sweeten your summer with this refreshing sorbet, infused with the essence of strawberries and basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped basil leaves
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries with the sugar until smooth.
2. Add the water and blend until well combined.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil leaves.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into bowls and drizzle with lemon juice.
Cooking Time: None (uses ice cream maker)
Garlic Basil Butter Shrimp
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional shrimp, this recipe combines the pungency of garlic, the brightness of basil, and the richness of butter for a truly delightful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Add chopped basil and stir to combine.
4. Place shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon the garlic-basil butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Basil and Pine Nut Hummus
Transform your snacking routine with this refreshing twist on the classic hummus recipe, featuring the bright flavors of basil and pine nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, basil, pine nuts, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in the olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the hummus is smooth and the desired consistency is reached.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Margherita Pizza with Fresh Basil
This recipe brings together the simplicity of Italian cuisine with the freshness of basil, creating a timeless pizza that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 4-6 leaves of fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
3. Spread the olive oil evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the oil, followed by the chopped basil leaves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Basil Lime Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lime, the earthiness of basil, and the smokiness of the grill.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and basil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the basil-lime mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Basil Coconut Curry Soup
This vibrant and aromatic soup combines the freshness of basil with the warmth of coconut curry, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a refreshing lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
– Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt (for added richness)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors meld together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped basil leaves and serve hot.
8. Optional: Stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt, if desired, for added richness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Mojito Cocktail
Experience the refreshing taste of summer with this unique Basil Mojito Cocktail recipe. Combining the classic mojito flavors with the bright, herbaceous notes of basil, this drink is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 lime wedges
– 2 ounces white rum
– 1 ounce club soda
– Ice cubes
– Simple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint and basil leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavors.
2. Add the lime juice and rum to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and stir gently.
6. Garnish with additional mint leaves, basil leaves, or lime wedges.
Cooking Time: None
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Savor the flavors of summer with this simple yet flavorful soup recipe that combines roasted tomatoes and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss tomatoes with olive oil, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. In a blender or food processor, puree roasted tomato mixture until smooth.
6. Add basil, broth, salt, and pepper; blend until well combined.
7. Simmer soup over low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Basil and Goat Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your meal with these colorful peppers filled with creamy goat cheese, savory basil, and a hint of garlic. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together goat cheese, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the goat cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender and filling is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Basil Infused Honey Glazed Salmon
This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the brightness of basil to create a unique and flavorful glaze for salmon.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, basil, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-basil glaze evenly over the salmon, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Basil Blackberry Smoothie
This refreshing summer treat combines the sweetness of blackberries with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for a hot day or as a pre-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen blackberries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the frozen blackberries, Greek yogurt, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the water and blend until well combined.
4. Add the chopped basil leaves and blend until they are fully incorporated into the smoothie.
5. Taste and adjust the sweetness or basil level as needed.
6. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Summary
Get ready to be tantalized by the sweet and aromatic flavor of basil! This herb is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason. From classic pasta dishes to refreshing summer drinks, we’ve got 18 fragrant sweet basil recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on an old favorite or something entirely new, this collection of recipes has it all. From savory to sweet, and from simple to complex, there’s something for everyone in this roundup of deliciously aromatic dishes.