20 Fresh Basil Recipes for Flavorful Meals

20 Fresh Basil Recipes for Flavorful Meals

There’s nothing like the bright, zesty flavor of fresh basil to add excitement to your meals. From classic pasta dishes to refreshing summer drinks, this versatile herb is a must-have in any kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice cook, we’ve got 20 delicious basil recipes that will inspire you to get cooking and experimenting with this flavorful ingredient.

In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the many uses of fresh basil in everything from savory main courses to sweet treats. With simple, easy-to-follow instructions and mouthwatering photos, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.

Classic Basil Pesto Pasta

Classic Basil Pesto Pasta Recipe

A quintessential Italian dish, this recipe combines the rich flavors of basil pesto with the comforting warmth of pasta.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until smooth and creamy pesto forms.
4. Add reserved pasta water to pesto, if needed, to achieve desired consistency.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with basil pesto. Season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Caprese Salad with Fresh Basil

A classic Italian salad that highlights the flavors of fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil.

Ingredients:

– 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 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 evenly over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Tomato Basil Soup

A classic summer soup that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this Tomato Basil Soup is a delicious way to enjoy the sweet flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil.

Ingredients:

– 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Basil Lemonade

A refreshing twist on classic lemonade, this Basil Lemonade recipe combines the sweetness of citrus with the brightness of fresh basil.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the chopped basil leaves to the pitcher and muddle them gently with a spoon to release their oils and flavors.
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 together.
5. Serve the Basil Lemonade over ice cubes, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: None (it’s a drink!)

Strawberry Basil Sorbet

This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of strawberries with the subtle flavor of basil, perfect for warm weather or as a palate cleanser between courses.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries, sugar, and water until smooth.
2. Add the basil leaves and blend until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and excess pulp.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into cones or bowls and drizzle with lemon juice.

Cooking Time: 2 hours (including freezing time)

Garlic Basil Butter Shrimp

Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic shrimp dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped basil.
3. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic-basil butter mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure they are all coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Serve: Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Basil Chicken Stir-Fry

A flavorful and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the sweetness of basil with the savory taste of chicken.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and bell peppers to the pan, cooking until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped basil and soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir-fry with the vegetables until heated through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Margherita Pizza with Basil

Experience the simplicity and flavor of Italy’s most beloved pizza, topped with the sweetness of fresh basil.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
– 2 cups (475ml) tomato sauce
– 8 oz (225g) mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup (15g) fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and extra-virgin olive oil for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm).
2. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5cm) border around the edges.
3. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the cheese.
5. Season with salt and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Basil Infused Olive Oil

Elevate your cooking with the bright, herbaceous flavor of basil infused into a rich olive oil. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and some patience to develop the perfect infusion.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves (chopped)
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions:

1. In a small glass jar or container, combine the chopped basil leaves and lemon zest.
2. Pour in the olive oil, making sure that all of the basil is covered.
3. Stir gently to combine, then seal the jar tightly with its lid.
4. Store the mixture at room temperature for 2-3 days to allow the flavors to meld.
5. After 2-3 days, strain the infused oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into another container, discarding the solids.
6. Use your basil-infused olive oil immediately, or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month.

Cooking Time: None

This flavorful oil is perfect for dressings, marinades, and finishing dishes just before serving. Enjoy!

Thai Basil Beef

A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry dish that combines the bold flavors of Thai basil with tender beef, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the Thai basil, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with additional Thai basil leaves if desired.

Basil and Pine Nut Hummus

This refreshing twist on traditional hummus combines the bright flavor of basil with the nutty taste of pine nuts, perfect for dipping veggies or pita chips.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, basil, pine nuts, salt, and pepper.
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 necessary.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Basil Mojito

A refreshing twist on the classic mojito, this Basil Mojito recipe combines the sweetness of mint with the brightness of basil.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 ounces white rum
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Soda water
– Ice

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint and basil leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release the oils and flavors.
2. Add the rum, lime juice, and simple syrup 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 soda water and garnish with a basil leaf or mint sprig.

Cooking Time: None, just mix and serve!

Basil Roasted Potatoes

Elevate your potato game with this flavorful recipe that combines the earthiness of potatoes with the bright, herby flavor of basil.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and basil until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Basil and Tomato Bruschetta

A classic Italian appetizer that combines the freshness of basil and the sweetness of tomatoes on toasted bread.

Ingredients:

– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch slices
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the bread, then sprinkle with garlic.
4. Top each slice with a spoonful of diced tomatoes and a sprinkle of basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle over the top.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and cheese melted.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Basil Coconut Curry

This creamy curry recipe combines the freshness of basil with the richness of coconut milk, creating a delicious and aromatic dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender (5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer while preparing basil garnish.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes.

Basil Lime Grilled Chicken

A refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken, this recipe combines the brightness of lime juice with the earthy flavor of basil for a deliciously zesty meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top of each breast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes

Basil and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

A flavorful and elegant appetizer or side dish that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the brightness of basil and creaminess of goat cheese.

Ingredients:

– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together goat cheese, basil, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Wipe mushroom caps clean with a damp cloth and fill each cap with the cheese mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Basil Garlic Bread

Elevate your meal with this savory and aromatic Basil Garlic Bread recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 loaf of French bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
4. Brush the garlic-infused oil onto each bread slice, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the bread slices, dividing them evenly among the slices.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is toasted and fragrant.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Basil Peach Smoothie

Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing Basil Peach Smoothie! Combine the sweetness of peaches with the brightness of basil for a unique and revitalizing drink.

Ingredients:
• 1 ripe peach, diced
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• Ice cubes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the peaches, basil leaves, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or basil level to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes

Basil and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken

Elevate your chicken dish with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the sweetness of mozzarella cheese, the brightness of fresh basil, and tender chicken.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped basil, mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, and garlic.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the basil-mozzarella mixture.
4. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your cooking with these 20 fresh basil recipes! From classic pasta dishes like Pesto Pasta and Margherita Pizza, to refreshing drinks like Basil Lemonade and smoothies like Peach Smoothie, there’s something for everyone. Savor the flavors of Italy with Caprese Salad and Tomato Basil Soup, or spice up your meals with Thai Basil Beef and Curry. And don’t forget sweet treats like Strawberry Basil Sorbet and Basil Mojito! With these recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to showcase the bright, herbaceous flavor of fresh basil.