There’s something special about sweet basil that just makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether you’re looking to add some fresh flavor to your pasta dishes, elevate your brunch game with a flavorful quiche, or simply want to enjoy a refreshing summer salad, sweet basil is the perfect herb to have in your culinary arsenal. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of sweet basil.
From classic pesto pasta dishes to innovative smoothies and sorbets, these sweet basil recipes are sure to inspire your next meal or snack. So go ahead, get creative, and let the sweet flavor of basil guide you in the kitchen!
Classic Sweet Basil Pesto Pasta
Classic Sweet Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe
This recipe brings together the flavors of Italy with a sweet twist. A creamy basil pesto sauce coats al dente pasta, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 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
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 large serving bowl, combine cooked pasta, basil pesto, and Parmesan cheese. Toss until well combined, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Basil Pesto Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (not including pesto preparation time)
Sweet Basil and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory bruschetta recipe, perfect for a quick bite or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices (preferably day-old)
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomato, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the toasted bread slices.
5. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture evenly over each bread slice.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if using.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes toasting baguette)
Thai Sweet Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy recipe that combines sweet basil, succulent chicken, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Thai sweet basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, along with the chopped basil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted peanuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Basil Lemonade
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade! Sweet basil adds a subtle herbal flavor that complements the tartness of fresh lemons.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the chopped sweet basil leaves to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice and garnish with additional fresh sweet basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration only)
Enjoy your Sweet Basil Lemonade on a warm day or as a refreshing pick-me-up any time of year!
Sweet Basil and Mozzarella Caprese Salad
A classic Italian salad that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful, this Sweet Basil and Mozzarella Caprese Salad is a perfect side dish for any meal. With the sweetness of fresh mozzarella, the pungency of basil, and the tanginess of tomatoes, every bite is a taste sensation.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh sweet basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the tomatoes into 1/2-inch thick slices.
2. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
3. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the cheese and tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet Basil Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your cooking with this simple yet flavorful recipe for Sweet Basil Infused Olive Oil. This infused oil is perfect for dressing salads, making pasta dishes, or using as a finishing touch for grilled meats and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cups fresh sweet basil leaves
– Optional: 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for sweeter flavor)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basil leaves with cold water, gently pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid, place the basil leaves.
3. Pour in the olive oil, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
4. Stir well to combine and ensure all basil is coated with oil.
5. Cover the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks or up to 6 months, shaking the jar daily.
6. After the infusion period, strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another container. Discard the solids (basil leaves).
7. If desired, add granulated sugar and stir well to combine.
Cooking Time: 2-6 months
Sweet Basil and Garlic Butter Shrimp
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this delectable shrimp dish, infused with the aromatic essence of basil and garlic.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and honey until smooth.
3. Add chopped basil leaves and stir well.
4. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush 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 the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Basil and Pineapple Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of pineapple with the brightness of fresh basil, perfect for a warm day or a post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine pineapple, basil, and banana.
2. Add Greek yogurt and honey; blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sweet Basil and Parmesan Risotto
A creamy, flavorful risotto infused with the sweetness of fresh basil and the savory richness of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. If using wine, add it to the pan and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the pan and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments, until the rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in the chopped basil and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Basil and Strawberry Sorbet
Sweet Basil and Strawberry Sorbet Recipe
A refreshing and unique dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the subtle flavor of basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries, sugar, and water until smooth.
2. Add the honey, salt, and basil leaves to the mixture and blend until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, fluff with whipped heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Note: You can also freeze the mixture without churning it in an ice cream maker. Simply pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or a 9×13 inch baking dish and place it in the freezer. Stir every 30 minutes until frozen solid.
Sweet Basil and Goat Cheese Tart
Sweet Basil and Goat Cheese Tart Recipe
Discover the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in this delightful tart, featuring fresh basil and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together goat cheese and honey until well combined.
4. Spread the goat cheese mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the cheese mixture.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush the pastry with a little water and sprinkle with salt.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Sweet Basil and Cucumber Gazpacho
A refreshing twist on the classic Spanish soup, this sweet basil and cucumber gazpacho is perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh cucumber
– 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumber, tomatoes, basil, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, then stir in olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Sweet Basil and Honey Glazed Salmon
Sweet Basil and Honey Glazed Salmon Recipe
Sweet Basil and Peach Sangria
Sweet Basil and Peach Sangria Recipe
Summer just got a whole lot sweeter! This refreshing sangria is perfect for warm weather gatherings, with the sweetness of peaches balanced by the brightness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc work well)
– 1 cup peach puree
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 sprigs fresh basil, chopped
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 lemon, peeled and segmented
– 1 liter sparkling water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the wine, peach puree, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the chopped basil, orange, and lemon segments to the pitcher. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and stir gently.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional basil leaves and peach slices if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This sangria is best served immediately, but it can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours if you want to make it ahead of time.
Sweet Basil and Roasted Vegetable Quiche
This quiche is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the added bonus of being incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions) cooled
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange the roasted vegetables evenly over the pie crust.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables.
6. Sprinkle chopped basil on top of the quiche.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sweet Basil and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this creamy and flavorful toast recipe, featuring sweet basil and ripe avocado.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of whole grain bread (e.g., baguette or ciabatta)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1/4 cup of fresh sweet basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat your toaster or toaster oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
3. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each slice of toast.
4. Drizzle honey over the avocado, followed by chopped sweet basil leaves.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, add minced garlic for an extra boost of flavor.
Cooking Time:
– Toasting: 2-3 minutes
– Assembly: 1 minute
Yield: 4 servings
Sweet Basil and Coconut Curry Soup
This creamy soup combines the warmth of curry with the brightness of fresh basil, creating a delightful and comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup sweet basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; add chopped basil leaves; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Basil and Chocolate Chip Cookies
Sweet Basil and Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Experience the unexpected harmony of sweet basil and rich chocolate in these unique cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until just combined.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Sweet Basil and Grilled Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these flavorful skewers, perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons fresh sweet basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush the tops of the chicken with additional olive oil and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves.
6. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Basil and Watermelon Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of watermelon with the brightness of basil, perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups diced seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and chopped basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the watermelon mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking with these 20 mouthwatering sweet basil recipes! From classic pasta dishes to refreshing summer drinks, and from savory stir-fries to decadent desserts, there’s something for every occasion. Discover the versatility of this fragrant herb as you explore recipes like Sweet Basil Pesto Pasta, Thai Sweet Basil Chicken Stir-Fry, and Sweet Basil Lemonade. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, these sweet basil recipes are sure to delight.
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