Are you looking for ways to incorporate the bright, citrusy flavor of fresh basil into your meals? You’ve come to the right place! With its sweet and slightly spicy aroma, basil is a versatile herb that can elevate everything from pasta dishes to salads, soups, and even desserts. From classic Italian recipes like pesto pasta and bruschetta, to creative twists on familiar flavors like strawberry lemonade and Thai chicken stir-fry, we’ve got you covered with these 18 fresh basil recipes.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with your cooking. So go ahead, get inspired, and let the flavor of fresh basil take your meals to the next level!
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta
Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe Summary:
Experience the quintessential taste of Italy with this simple yet flavorful pasta dish, showcasing the vibrant flavors of fresh basil and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Process until well combined and slightly smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
4. Add the Parmesan cheese and process until well combined.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and basil pesto sauce. Toss to coat, adding more water if needed for a creamy consistency.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves and Parmesan shavings if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Salad with Fresh Basil
This iconic Italian salad is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, creaminess of mozzarella cheese, and brightness of fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad in a zigzag pattern.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves evenly over the salad.
5. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad in a thin stream.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, straight from the kitchen.
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this classic Italian-inspired recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the pungency of basil, and the crunch 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
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Top toasted bread rounds with tomato-basil mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic Basil Garlic Butter Shrimp dish. A perfect combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and succulent shrimp, this recipe is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and basil until well combined.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Strawberry Basil Lemonade
This refreshing drink combines the sweetness of strawberries, the brightness of lemonade, and the subtle flavor of basil for a unique and delightful twist on a classic summer drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the sliced strawberries with a spoon or a potato masher to release their natural sweetness and flavor.
2. Add the fresh basil leaves to the pitcher and muddle them gently to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
4. Add the lemon mixture to the pitcher and stir to combine.
5. Add the water and stir well to dissolve any remaining sugar.
6. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with additional basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly hands-off time)
Thai Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
This classic Thai dish is a staple of street food cuisine, featuring succulent chicken, fragrant basil, and the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. With this quick and easy recipe, you can recreate the flavors of Thailand in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups mixed basil leaves and stems
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Stir in basil leaves, soy sauce, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the freshness of basil, the richness of parmesan, and the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle basil leaves and parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
6. If desired, add red pepper flakes and continue roasting for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the sweetness of mozzarella cheese with the bright flavor of basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together basil, mozzarella, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the basil-mozzarella mixture.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Basil Tomato Soup
A classic comfort food recipe with a fresh twist, this Creamy Basil Tomato Soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures to warm up any meal. With the sweetness of tomatoes, the creaminess of coconut milk, and the brightness of basil, this soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add tomatoes, coconut milk, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Stir in olive oil and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Basil Ricotta Flatbread
Transform your pizza night with this flavorful Basil Ricotta Flatbread recipe! This simple yet impressive flatbread combines the freshness of basil, the creaminess of ricotta cheese, and the crunch of breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 tablespoons ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add olive oil and mix until dough forms. Knead for 2-3 minutes.
3. Roll out the dough into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
4. Spread ricotta cheese over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil and breadcrumbs evenly over the ricotta cheese.
6. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling, forming a crust.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with this refreshing and flavorful basil infused olive oil. Perfect for dressing salads, making sauces, or using as a finishing touch for pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basil leaves with cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over low heat.
3. Add the basil leaves to the warm oil and stir gently to combine.
4. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
6. If desired, add a pinch of salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Basil Lime Cucumber Salad
This salad combines the cooling flavors of cucumber and lime with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for hot summer days. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious salad in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices and chopped basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Spaghetti with Basil and Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a simple yet satisfying spaghetti dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a summer dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 4-6 fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and tomato-basil mixture in the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Basil Mint Mojito
This Basil Mint Mojito is a twist on the classic cocktail, incorporating fresh basil and mint leaves to create a unique and refreshing flavor profile. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you want to unwind with a cool drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ice
– 1/2 cup white rum
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup club soda
– 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine ice, rum, and lime juice.
2. Add the chopped mint and basil leaves to the shaker and muddle gently.
3. Fill the shaker with club soda and shake well for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with additional mint leaves and basil, if desired.
6. Sweeten to taste with sugar, if preferred.
Cooking Time: None
Mediterranean Basil Hummus
This Mediterranean-inspired hummus recipe adds the bright flavors of basil and lemon to the traditional chickpea dip. Perfect for snacking, serving with pita bread or veggies, or using as a sandwich spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the chickpeas, basil leaves, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt.
3. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Grilled Peach and Basil Sorbet
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and refreshing sorbet recipe that combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill peach slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, puree grilled peaches with sugar, water, and salt until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream and chopped basil leaves.
5. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (grilling time)
Basil Wrapped Goat Cheese Bites
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized treats that combine the creamy richness of goat cheese with the bright flavor of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 log of goat cheese (about 8 oz), crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 toothpicks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together crumbled goat cheese and chopped basil.
3. Roll the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place a ball of cheese onto each toothpick, leaving a small portion at the top for wrapping.
5. Wrap a single basil leaf around each ball of cheese, securing with the toothpick.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the goat cheese is slightly softened.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Basil Grilled Salmon
Impress your guests with this refreshing summer recipe that combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of basil. This dish is perfect for a light and easy dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top of each fillet.
5. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Summary
Looking for ways to add some fresh flavor to your meals? Look no further! This article features 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility and taste of basil. From classic pesto pasta to sweet strawberry lemonade, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Learn how to make mouthwatering bruschetta, shrimp with garlic butter, roasted potatoes with parmesan, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking and add some zest to your meals.