Herb | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Basil

Ocimum basilicum Allergen-Free
basil

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Lamiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Italian, Southeast Asian
  • Seasonality Summer (Fresh), Year-Round (Dried)
  • Source Basil plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Delve into the fragrant world of basil with Forktionary, mastering its cultivation and diverse culinary applications for vibrant, fresh flavors."

Definition

A highly aromatic herb from the mint family, characterized by its sweet, peppery, and slightly anise-like flavor, central to many Mediterranean cuisines.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, peppery, slightly anise-like, minty
TextureTender, leafy, soft
AromaSweet, pungent, herbaceous, licorice notes
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Common Usage

Pesto, Caprese salad, Thai curries

Key Flavor Compound

Eugenol, estragole, linalool

Storage (Fresh, Room Temp)

1 week (stems in water)

Nutrition Facts

Per 4g (4 leaves)
Calories23 kcal
Total Fat0.64g
Saturated Fat0.04g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein3.15g
Total Carbohydrate2.65g
Dietary Fiber1.6g
Total Sugars0.3g
Calcium177mg
Iron3.17mg
Potassium295mg

Chef’s Secret

Add fresh basil at the very end of cooking or as a garnish. Its delicate oils are volatile and degrade quickly with heat, preserving its vibrant flavor.

Substitutions

Best Match

Fresh Oregano

1:1

Stronger, more pungent flavor. Best for cooked dishes where basil's delicate notes might be lost.

Fresh Mint

1:1

Offers a similar freshness and peppery, cooling sensation, but with a distinct minty profile. Good for certain savory dishes or drinks.

Fresh Parsley

1:1

Offers a fresh, clean, slightly peppery note, but lacks the anise and sweetness of basil. Good for color and general fresh herbiness.

Dried Basil

1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh

Concentrated flavor, but lacks the brightness of fresh. Best for long-simmered sauces or dishes where fresh isn't available.

Buying Guide

Choose fresh basil with vibrant green leaves, free of wilting or dark spots. Store at room temperature with stems in water.

Flavor Pairings

Tomatoes mozzarella garlic olive oil pasta chicken fish pesto strawberries.

Recipes Using Basil

Main Ingredient Easy Presentation Low Saturated Fat

Put Down Your Fork Tuna And Bean Salad

This vibrant tuna and bean salad is bursting with fresh flavors! Inspired by a simple family recipe, this upgraded version is so delicious, you'll want to savor every bite. The perfect make-ahead dish for a summer BBQ, potluck, or light lunch. Get ready to hear 'Put down your fork!' from your family and friends!

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Equipment Squash Cuisine Main Ingredient

Blond Minestrone

Say goodbye to tomato-based woes with this vibrant and nourishing Blond Minestrone! Perfect for those with tomato allergies or simply seeking a lighter, brighter twist on a classic. This flexible recipe boasts a medley of fresh vegetables and hearty beans, creating a comforting and flavorful soup that's sure to become a new favorite. Easily adaptable for tomato lovers too!

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Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Beans Seasonal

10 Bean Soup

This hearty 10 Bean Soup recipe is a flavor explosion! Even without the traditional ham hock and smoked turkey, this vegetarian adaptation is heavenly. Perfect for using up leftover turkey stock, this recipe is a comforting classic, bursting with fresh vegetables and tender beans. Inspired by Jan and Norman's variety pack favorites.

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30 Minutes Or Less Occasion Meat Tomatoes

20 Minute Tomato Basil Pork Chops

Impress your taste buds with these juicy, flavorful 20-Minute Tomato Basil Pork Chops! Featured on Taste of Home's cooking show, this recipe is incredibly easy and quick, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated dinner party. The vibrant colors and delicious combination of tender pork, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil create a dish that's both stunning and satisfying. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor in just 20 minutes!

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Penne Comfort Food Preparation European

3 Pepper Pasta

This family-favorite 3 Pepper Pasta recipe is a delicious and versatile dish! Inspired by an old college roommate, this recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences – vegetarian or with savory Italian sausage. Enjoy tender peppers, sautéed mushrooms, and aromatic garlic tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. A touch of red wine vinegar adds brightness, while parmesan cheese provides a delightful finishing touch. Get ready to savor this quick and flavorful weeknight meal!

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Healthy 2 Dietary Healthy 2 Low Fat

30 Minute One Pan Chicken Meal

Ready in under 40 minutes, this one-pan lemon herb chicken and veggie recipe is a weeknight dinner winner! Juicy chicken breasts are baked alongside tender zucchini, mushrooms, and onions, all in a flavorful tomato-garlic sauce. Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor – perfect for busy weeknights!

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Low Fat Taste Mood Comfort Food Low Calorie

Acadia's Marinara Sauce

This vibrant and flavorful marinara sauce recipe elevates your pasta nights! Made with fresh herbs and a touch of sherry, this recipe creates a rich, delicious sauce perfect for any pasta dish. Easily adaptable to use either canned or fresh tomatoes – instructions are provided for both! Get ready to savor the taste of homemade perfection.

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One Dish Meal Chili Poultry Dietary

All American County Fair Prize Winning Chili

This legendary chili recipe, perfected over years, consistently wins raves! Make a massive batch (enough for 30-40 servings!) to freeze and enjoy for months. Its rich, flavorful profile (cumin-free!) is packed with heat and satisfying goodness. Perfect for chili dogs, or topped with cheddar, sour cream, bread, and nacho chips. Share your county fair success (and maybe your favorite pie recipe!) with me if you win!

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4 Hours Or Less 4 Hours Or Less Time To Make Stews

Amazing Chicken Stew

After years of browsing and testing recipes, I'm thrilled to finally share my own delicious Chicken Stew! This hearty and flavorful stew is perfect for a cozy night in and is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience a taste sensation – tender chicken, perfectly seasoned vegetables, and a rich, comforting broth. This recipe is a culmination of inspiration from this wonderful community, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

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Poultry Main Ingredient Pasta Poultry

Angel Hair Pasta With Chicken Mk

A quick and easy family favorite! This delightful Angel Hair Pasta recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and features tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a creamy parmesan sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that kids and adults will love.

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Course 60 Minutes Or Less Pasta Vegetables

Angel Hair Pasta With Fresh Spinach Peas Feta

Delight in this light and flavorful Angel Hair Pasta dish! Fresh spinach, sweet peas, and creamy feta combine with perfectly cooked pasta for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe is bursting with fresh flavors and is ready in under an hour. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying dinner.

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Eggs Brunch

Artichoke And Sun Dried Tomato Quiche

This delightful Artichoke and Sun-Dried Tomato Quiche is a flavor explosion! A creamy, cheesy filling bursting with artichoke hearts, juicy sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all baked in a flaky crust. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to follow instructions and stunning results!

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Italian Cuisine 4 Hours Or Less Dietary

Authentic Italian Tomato Sauce

Discover the taste of Italy with this authentic tomato sauce recipe, passed down through generations! This rich and flavorful sauce, simmered for three hours, is a family favorite. Perfect for pairing with your favorite meatballs (recipe available separately) or Italian sausage, this sauce is guaranteed to be a culinary masterpiece. Get ready to experience the true taste of Nona's kitchen!

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Holiday Event Course Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less

Avocado Basil Pasta

This vibrant and flavorful Avocado Basil Pasta is the perfect weeknight meal! A creamy avocado sauce coats perfectly cooked pasta, tossed with crispy bacon, fresh basil, and a zesty lemon dressing. Enjoy it as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a refreshing pasta salad. This recipe, inspired by Better Homes & Gardens, is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress.

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Eggs Vegetarian Omelets And Frittatas Lunch

Baked Frittata For One

Satisfy your cravings with this single-serving baked frittata! Perfect for a quick lunch or light supper, this recipe is easily doubled for sharing. We recommend using a Roma plum tomato for the best flavor – its sweetness complements the eggs beautifully. Discover a delicious and satisfying meal ready in under 40 minutes!

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Main Ingredient Time To Make To Go Cuisine

Baked Green Beans With Feta Cheese

Elevate your side dish game with this irresistible Greek-style baked green beans recipe! Tender green beans are roasted to perfection with juicy tomatoes, salty feta, and aromatic herbs. A simple yet flavorful recipe ready in under an hour – perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Savory To Go European Oven

Baked Stuffed Pasta Shells

Experience the irresistible taste of authentic Italian comfort food with our Baked Stuffed Pasta Shells! This crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress. Tender pasta shells are generously filled with a creamy cheese mixture and smothered in rich spaghetti sauce. Easy to make, yet bursting with flavor, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal!

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Seafood Preparation Seafood Main Ingredient

Baked Tilapia

Flaky, delicious baked tilapia fillets smothered in a creamy herb sauce. This easy recipe from the American Tilapia Association is ready in under an hour and perfect for a weeknight dinner. Impress your family with this restaurant-quality dish!

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