Sweet Basil

Ocimum basilicum Herb

Sweet Basil Herb

At a Glance

  • Category Herb

The Forktionary Angle

"The aromatic heart of Mediterranean cuisine, transformative in both fresh and cooked applications."

Definition

A fragrant culinary herb from the mint family, known for its sweet, peppery, and slightly anise-like flavor, essential in many cuisines.

Key Compound Contains eugenol, linalool, and estragole.
Optimal Storage Store stems in water at room temperature, covered loosely.
Popular Usage Crucial for pesto, caprese salad, and marinara sauce.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Sweet Basil are:

Sweet peppery slightly pungent anise-like fresh aromatic

Chef’s Secret

Add fresh basil at the very end of cooking, or as a garnish, to preserve its delicate flavor and vibrant green color. Heat diminishes its potency.

Best Substitutes

Thai Basil

stronger anise flavor) (0.
Ratio 75:1

Oregano

different profile) (0.
Ratio 5:1

Spinach

for color/volume in pesto) (
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for vibrant, green leaves without wilting or dark spots. Available fresh in bunches or potted.

Recipes Using Sweet Basil

Occasion Ground Beef Comfort Food Italian

Authentic Italian Meatballs Polpette

A treasured family recipe passed down through generations, these Authentic Italian Meatball Polpette are guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen! My mom's friend's family cookbook, a cherished wedding gift, holds the secret to these incredibly flavorful meatballs. Perfect for spaghetti night, meatball subs, or delightful party appetizers (crockpot-friendly!), these polpette are a crowd-pleaser. While some find adding uncooked meatballs to the sauce unconventional, this method ensures perfectly tender meatballs that retain their shape. The long simmering time develops incredible depth of flavor. I use store-bought sauce (shhh!), but the meatballs are the true star of the show! Makes a generous amount, perfect for freezing leftovers.

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To Go Asian Dietary Preparation

Asian Style Chicken Ramen Dinner Cole Slaw

Craving a quick, flavorful, and unique salad? This Asian Style Chicken Ramen Salad is your answer! This creamy, non-sweet recipe combines crispy chicken, crunchy ramen noodles, and a refreshing coleslaw for a dish that's perfect as a light dinner, a satisfying side, or a crowd-pleasing potluck star. Easy to make in under 30 minutes, this recipe is packed with Asian-inspired flavors and customizable to your liking. Add your favorite toppings like sliced black olives, almonds, or fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor!

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Preparation South West Pacific Cuisine 4 Hours Or Less

Baked Cashew Loaf

This decadent Baked Cashew Loaf recipe is a hidden gem, inspired by a naturopath's delightful lunch at a weekend workshop! Imagine a savory, surprisingly nutty loaf packed with wholesome vegetables and a creamy cashew base. The perfect blend of textures and flavors will leave you guessing the ingredients. Enjoy it warm with homemade tomato sauce, or cold in a sandwich with fresh cucumber and sprouts for a satisfying work lunch. This recipe, reminiscent of classic Australian cuisine (found in an early 90s Women's Weekly cookbook!), is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this unique and unforgettable vegetarian loaf!

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High In Something Main Ingredient Dietary 4 Hours Or Less

Baked Herbed Chicken Breasts

This recipe, inspired by a cherished church cookbook, creates incredibly flavorful baked chicken breasts. A fragrant blend of herbs and spices delivers a burst of taste in every bite. This recipe is incredibly versatile – serve with your favorite roasted potatoes and vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Easily adaptable to your spice preferences – experiment and make it your own!

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Course Spicy Curries One Dish Meal

Authentic Thai Red Curry With Chicken

Craving an authentic Thai Red Curry that packs a fiery punch? Look no further! This recipe, perfected during months of exploring Thailand, delivers the intense, lip-smacking flavor you've been searching for. While traditionally scorching, we've dialed back the heat slightly for broader enjoyment, allowing you to customize the spice level to your liking. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables – more onions? Three types of peppers? Go for it! This adaptable recipe is as fun to cook as it is to eat. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the bustling street food markets of Thailand!

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Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less High In Something Preparation

T W A Meatballs For Spaghetti

A family favorite for over 45 years! These incredibly tender and juicy meatballs are the perfect addition to your spaghetti night. Easily customizable to your desired size, they're great for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion. Double the recipe and freeze portions for future use – because who can resist these delicious homemade meatballs? Get ready for rave reviews!

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3 Steps Or Less Taste Mood Easy Nuts

Basil Cashew Chicken Salad

A vibrant and flavorful chicken salad with a surprising twist! This recipe combines the deliciousness of basil and chicken, along with crunchy cashews, creating a creamy and satisfying sandwich filling ready in just 5 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!

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Course Pasta Course Preparation

Best Italian Lasagna Ever

This lasagna recipe is a revelation! Inspired by an unforgettable lasagna from years past, this recipe comes incredibly close to recreating that magical experience. Make two – one for tonight's dinner and one to freeze for another amazing meal! Prepare to be amazed by the rich, flavorful layers of perfectly cooked pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy ricotta filling. Get ready for the best lasagna you've ever tasted!

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Cuisine Number Of Servings For 1 Or 2 Vegetables

Asian Mint's Thai Red Curry With Shrimp

Experience the authentic taste of Thailand with this vibrant Asian Mint Thai Red Curry! Dallas chef Nikky Phinyawatana's recipe captures the perfect balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and sour. This quick and easy 20-minute recipe is packed with fresh shrimp, fragrant coconut milk, and vibrant vegetables. A delicious and authentic Thai dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party. Recipe inspired by the Dallas Morning News.

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Time To Make Preparation Side Dishes Salads

Anytime Pasta Salad

This vibrant Anytime Pasta Salad is the perfect side dish for your next summer BBQ! Light, refreshing, and customizable, this recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests. Packed with fresh vegetables and tossed in a creamy dressing, it's the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Poultry Chicken Occasion Whole Chicken

Beer Can Chicken In An Oven

Get ready for juicy, fall-off-the-bone perfection! This oven-baked Beer Can Chicken recipe skips the grill, delivering incredibly moist and tender results in a fraction of the time. Easy to follow instructions and minimal cleanup make this the perfect weeknight meal. Impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish!

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Course Main Ingredient 30 Minutes Or Less Low Calorie

30 Minute Easy Pork Chops Scaloppine

Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick and easy pork chop recipe is inspired by a family favorite! No time for a fussy dinner? This adapted scaloppine recipe delivers delicious flavor without the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's a one-pan wonder that's sure to become a new family favorite.

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