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

Low Calorie Copycat Time To Make Course

Copycat La Madeline's Tomato Basil Soup

Warm up on chilly nights with this irresistible copycat recipe of La Madeline's famous Tomato Basil Soup! This comforting and flavorful soup is incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. We've perfected the recipe to capture the restaurant's signature taste, creating a creamy, vibrant soup bursting with fresh basil and ripe tomatoes. Get ready for the ultimate taste of homemade comfort food!

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30 Minutes Or Less One Dish Meal Italian Main Ingredient

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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Equipment Pizza Oven 4 Hours Or Less

Amazing Thin Crust Pizza

Conquer pizza night with this game-changing recipe! Inspired by Cook's Illustrated and seasoned pizzaiolo techniques, this recipe creates a ridiculously crispy-tender, 13x18 inch (half-sheet pan) thin crust pizza (or two 12-inch rounds). My husband claims it's the highlight of his day – and it might be yours too! This recipe features a flavorful sauce (enough for 3 medium or 6 thin crust pizzas!), and meticulous instructions for achieving perfect crust and topping balance. A pizza stone is essential for that authentic pizzeria crisp. Learn the trick for effortless pizza transfer using parchment paper and a half-sheet pan. Get ready to impress – this pizza is better than takeout, and once you try it, you'll never order pizza again!

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Pasta Rice And Grains 30 Minutes Or Less Scallops Dietary

Angel Hair Pasta With Scallops Tomato Basil

This incredible Angel Hair Pasta recipe features perfectly seared scallops, sweet burst cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil – a restaurant-quality dish ready in under 20 minutes! Inspired by a store seafood department ad, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Impress your friends and family with this simple yet elegant pasta dish bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.

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Preparation 3 Steps Or Less Cuisine Easy

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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Low In Something Preparation Cuisine Low In Something

Apple Vinaigrette

Craft a delightful, subtly sweet Apple Vinaigrette in just 5 minutes! This New England, Mid-Atlantic, and Canadian-inspired dressing is perfect for elevating your salads. The zesty apple juice, fragrant herbs, and tangy vinegar create a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Easy to make and bursting with fresh taste!

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North American High In Something Occasion Appetizers

Artichoke Quesadillas

Craving a quick, delicious, and sophisticated meal? These Artichoke Quesadillas are your answer! Bursting with the savory heartiness of artichokes, the zest of fresh basil, and the creamy melt of cheese, these quesadillas are unbelievably easy to make. Perfect as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a satisfying dinner alongside rice and beans, these quesadillas will become a new family favorite. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor experience!

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Vegetables Course 4 Hours Or Less Dietary

Asiago Potatoes

Elevate your dinner party with these gourmet Asiago-stuffed red potatoes! Perfectly tender red potatoes are scooped and filled with a creamy, dreamy mixture of garlic, sharp Asiago cheese, fresh basil, and a touch of mayonnaise. A simple yet elegant recipe that's sure to impress. Get ready for a burst of flavor in every bite!

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Pork Lunch Time To Make Dietary

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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Time To Make Cuisine Healthy Beans

Bahamian Peas And Rice

A vibrant and flavorful taste of the Bahamas! This hearty Bahamian Peas and Rice recipe is a Caribbean staple, easily adaptable for vegetarians. Enjoy tender rice, succulent peas, and a burst of fresh herbs in this classic dish. Inspired by the BBQ Bible, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Easily customizable – omit bacon for a vegetarian option!

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Brunch Oven Low Calorie Eggs Dairy

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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Vegetables Side Dishes Occasion Oven

Baked Spaghetti With Chicken And Spinach

A comforting and flavorful baked spaghetti recipe! This cheesy, spicy dish features tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked spaghetti in a vibrant tomato sauce. The hint of chili flakes adds a delightful kick, making it a family favorite. Serve with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

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60 Minutes Or Less Brown Bag Main Ingredient Presentation

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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Low Carb Cuisine Easy Dietary

Basil And Feta Spread

This vibrant Basil & Feta Spread is the perfect appetizer! Creamy whipped feta cheese blends beautifully with fresh basil, garlic, and a touch of olive oil. Easy to make in minutes, this delicious dip is perfect for spreading on crostini, crackers, or vegetables. Impress your guests with this simple yet elegant recipe.

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Main Ingredient Time To Make Low Sodium Low Calorie

Basil Zucchini Orzo Salad

This vibrant Basil Zucchini Orzo Salad is a summer sensation! A light and flavorful dish bursting with fresh basil, tender zucchini, and perfectly cooked orzo pasta. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect as a refreshing salad or a warm side dish. Get ready for a taste of summer in every bite!

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Cuisine Food Processor Blender Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Cuisine

Basil Walnut Pesto

Elevate your pasta night with this vibrant and flavorful Basil Walnut Pesto! Rich in healthy fats and bursting with fresh basil flavor, this recipe is quick, easy, and surprisingly healthy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pesto is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience pesto perfection!

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Course Time To Make American Inexpensive

Bean And Tomato Salad

This vibrant bean and tomato salad is the perfect complement to any Italian meal! Made with fresh, ripe tomatoes (the best kind!), this simple recipe comes together in minutes. Enjoy its burst of summery freshness as a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer. #beansalad #tomatosalad #italiansalad #summerrecipe #easyrecipe #quickrecipe

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4 Hours Or Less Meat 4 Hours Or Less Beef

Beef Braciole

Experience the rich, savory flavors of authentic Italian Beef Braciole! This recipe guides you through creating tender, flavorful beef rolls, simmered in a vibrant tomato sauce with aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal.

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