Herbs | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Carb

Basil Leave

Ocimum basilicum Allergen-Free
basil leave

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Lamiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean
  • Seasonality Summer, Year-Round (indoors)
  • Source Basil plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Exploring the diverse world of basil, from sweet Italian varieties to spicy Thai types, and mastering its delicate flavor."

Definition

A fragrant herb from the mint family, widely used in Mediterranean, Italian, and Southeast Asian cuisine for its sweet, peppery flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet,Peppery,Anise-like
TextureTender,Smooth,Leafy
AromaAromatic,Sweet,Herbal,Slightly Spicy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Botanical Family

Lamiaceae (mint family)

Ideal Storage

Stems in water, covered (room temp)

Main Aroma Compound

Eugenol (clove-like)

Nutrition Facts

Per 4g (1/4 cup chopped)
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

For maximum flavor, add fresh basil at the very end of cooking. Bruise leaves gently before adding to release aromatics and prevent blackening.

Substitutions

Best Match

Spinach (Baby)

1:1 (cooked), 1:2 (raw)

Good for adding green color and mild flavor to sauces; lacks basil's distinctive aroma.

Parsley (Flat-leaf)

1:1

Offers fresh, herbal notes and color, but without the sweetness of basil.

Mint

1:1 (use sparingly)

Provides a fresh, aromatic quality, but has a stronger, cooler taste. Good for specific dishes.

Oregano (Fresh)

1:2

Stronger and more pungent than basil, use less. Works in Italian dishes.

Buying Guide

Choose vibrant green leaves without wilting or dark spots. Store at room temperature in water or lightly wrapped in the fridge.

Flavor Pairings

Tomatoes mozzarella garlic olive oil lemon chicken fish pasta pizza.

Recipes Using Basil Leave

Vegan Pasta Pasta Rice And Grains Served Cold

Raw Angel Hair Zucchini Pasta With Fresh Pesto

Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this refreshing raw zucchini pasta recipe! A healthy and delicious alternative to traditional pasta, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for non-raw foodists and non-vegetarians. Impress your friends and family with this light, zesty, and vibrant dish packed with fresh pesto goodness.

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Inexpensive Dietary 3 Steps Or Less One Dish Meal

Absolutely Delicious And Simple Tomato Basil And Garlic Pasta

Giada De Laurentiis' unbelievably easy and flavorful pasta recipe! This quick 23-minute meal uses fresh or canned tomatoes, fragrant basil, and savory garlic for a taste sensation. Elevate your weeknight dinner with this vibrant and satisfying dish – perfect for a romantic evening or a casual family meal. Learn how to make restaurant-quality pasta at home!

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Italian Italian Time To Make 3 Steps Or Less

Antipasta Salad

A vibrant and flavorful Antipasto Salad perfect as a light lunch, side dish to your favorite Italian entree, or a delightful appetizer! This recipe bursts with Mediterranean freshness, combining juicy tomatoes, salty olives, crisp peppers, and savory salami for an unforgettable taste experience. Easy to prepare in just 10 minutes!

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Preparation Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Breads

Antipasto Bread

This crowd-pleasing Antipasto Bread is perfect for lunch, appetizers, picnics, and beach days! A vibrant medley of Italian flavors baked into a crusty loaf, it's bursting with fresh ingredients and irresistible taste. Easy to make and even easier to devour, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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60 Minutes Or Less Course 60 Minutes Or Less Main Dish

Artichoke Pesto Flounder With Asiago Crust

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this stunning Artichoke Pesto Flounder, boasting a crispy Asiago crust! This recipe expertly blends two classic fish preparations – a flavorful pesto coating and a melt-in-your-mouth cheese crust. The result? A restaurant-quality dish that's surprisingly easy to make at home. We've perfected the technique for even cheese coverage with a simple egg wash, ensuring a golden-brown crust every time. Feel free to substitute another flaky white fish if desired. Leftover pesto? A dollop on top adds the perfect finishing touch!

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For 1 Or 2 For 1 Or 2 Poultry 3 Steps Or Less

Asian Spiced Chicken With Vanilla Apricot Sauce

Experience a flavor explosion with this unique Asian Spiced Chicken recipe! A healthy and delicious twist on classic Asian flavors, this dish features a surprising vanilla apricot sauce that perfectly complements the savory chicken. Inspired by a McCormick recipe, this upgraded version is quick, easy, and uses pantry staples. We've doubled the sauce recipe because it's THAT good! Serve this satisfying meal over fluffy rice, topped with crunchy wonton strips for the ultimate textural experience. A restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home!

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Independence Day Barbecue Occasion Preparation

Aussie Lamb Burgers With Goat Cheese And Tomato Relish

Savor the taste of Australia with these juicy Aussie Lamb Burgers! This recipe, inspired by "Simply Delicious Australian Lamb," features flavorful lamb patties coated in cornmeal, topped with creamy goat cheese, and a vibrant homemade tomato relish. Perfect for a BBQ, weeknight dinner, or any occasion. Get ready for a culinary adventure Down Under!

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Time To Make Main Dish Main Ingredient Meat

Authentic Greek Moussaka

Experience the taste of Greece with this authentic Moussaka recipe, passed down through generations! This comforting casserole features tender eggplant, rich meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel topping. A family favorite, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. Prepare to be amazed!

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30 Minutes Or Less Bacon Course Main Ingredient

Avocado Feta And Pancetta Bruschetta

Elevate your appetizer game with this gourmet twist on classic bruschetta! Inspired by the Italian tradition of 'bruscare' (toasting over coals), this recipe skips the tomatoes for a creamy, salty, and utterly delicious combination of ripe avocado, tangy feta, and crispy pancetta. Perfect for a romantic lunch for two or a sophisticated starter for four, this Avocado Feta & Pancetta Bruschetta is sure to impress. Discover the simple elegance of perfectly toasted bread, infused with garlic and the finest olive oil, topped with a luxurious blend of fresh avocado, salty feta, and savory pancetta. A quick and easy recipe for unforgettable flavor!

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Dietary Dips Sauces Course

Avocado Feta Salsa

A vibrant and flavorful Avocado Feta Salsa, inspired by Better Homes and Gardens! This easy appetizer comes together in minutes, boasting creamy avocado, salty feta, and bright summer flavors. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight snack with tortilla chips!

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Cuisine Time To Make Number Of Servings Pasta Rice And Grains

Baked Manicotti With Cheese Filling

Experience the authentic taste of Italy with this incredible Baked Manicotti recipe! For 25 years, this time-honored recipe has been a family favorite, featuring delicate homemade crepe-style manicotti shells filled with a rich and creamy cheese mixture, then baked in a luscious tomato sauce. Skip the store-bought shells and elevate your manicotti game to a whole new level – it's worth the effort! This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a truly unforgettable weeknight dinner.

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Occasion Potatoes Low Calorie Dietary

Baked Sicilian Frittata

Start your day the Sicilian way with this hearty and delicious frittata! Prep most of it the night before for a quick and easy weekday breakfast. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings – simply bake while you shower and get ready for work. Serves 8 (easily halved for 4). Enjoy this flavorful blend of potatoes, peppers, broccoli, and cheese for a satisfying and unforgettable breakfast experience, especially perfect for holiday brunches!

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Course Time To Make Course Vegetables

Barefoot Contessa's Panzanella Salad

Ina Garten's vibrant Panzanella salad, straight from her 'Parties' cookbook, is a summer sensation! This recipe features perfectly toasted bread cubes tossed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a bright, tangy vinaigrette. Easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors, this crowd-pleasing salad is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress!

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Course Brunch Sandwiches Brown Bag

Barefoot Contessa's Roasted Pepper And Goat Cheese Sandwiches

Ina Garten's irresistible Roasted Pepper & Goat Cheese Sandwiches are a flavor explosion! This recipe recreates the magic seen on the Barefoot Contessa show, featuring perfectly roasted peppers, creamy goat cheese, and fresh basil, all nestled in crusty ciabatta. Prepare to be amazed by the simple yet sophisticated flavors. Pair with a fresh pea soup (recipe not included) for a complete culinary experience.

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Main Dish Occasion Casseroles 60 Minutes Or Less

Basil Biscuit Topped Chicken Pot Pie

This comforting chicken pot pie gets a delicious upgrade with a fragrant basil biscuit topping! Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible flavor in just 40 minutes. Get ready for flaky biscuits and a creamy chicken filling – pure comfort food bliss!

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Main Dish Dietary Pasta Rice And Grains Low In Something

Basil Pasta Noodles

Experience the taste of summer with these homemade basil pasta noodles! Inspired by a Taste of Home recipe, this recipe guides you through making fresh pasta from scratch, infused with the vibrant aroma of basil. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight treat, this recipe is surprisingly easy and well worth the time. The result? Exquisite, flavorful noodles that will elevate any pasta dish.

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Savory Sauces Low Carb Easy Dietary

Basil Pesto Lighter Version

Summer's freshest basil shines in this lighter take on classic pesto! Perfect for a quick and healthy pasta sauce or as a vibrant topping for grilled chicken or fish. This recipe uses less olive oil than traditional pesto, keeping it light and flavorful. Get ready to enjoy the taste of summer in just 5 minutes!

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