A single bunch of fresh basil will perk up a whole week’s worth of dinners! Whether you layer it into sandwiches, sprinkle ribbons of basil over a pan of lasagna, or blitz it into pesto, it makes every meal taste a little more summery and fresh.
Basil is the most underrated summer ingredient!
We all look forward to tomatoes, corn, and peaches, but summer herbs fly under the radar. So let’s take a moment to celebrate what I think is the very best summer herb: basil!
Basil has a way of making everything taste fresh!
- Basil Works With So Many Dishes. It’s not just for Italian food! Basil is a favorite in Greek, French, Thai, and Mediterranean recipes, and it goes with almost any vegetable and most proteins too.
- It Cuts Through Richness. Basil adds some balance to creamy sauces, cheese, and grilled meats, making them taste lighter.
- You Can Grow It Yourself. Fresh herbs are expensive, but basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow. Even a small pot on a sunny windowsill or patio can provide enough basil for weeks of cooking.
When your basil is getting ready to bolt and you need to use a LOT in a short amount of time, this is the recipe to make. Pesto captures the herb at its peak and gives you a sauce you'll want to spread on sandwiches, toss with pasta, or spoon over grilled vegetables all week.
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There are few better showcases for fresh basil than a Caprese sandwich. Layered with ripe tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, basil provides the peppery freshness that makes the whole sandwich come alive.
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Salmon and basil are an underrated combination. The pesto keeps the fish moist while adding bright herbaceous flavor that pairs beautifully with its richness.
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Fresh basil adds a fragrant finish that balances the creamy coconut milk and warm spices. It's one of those ingredients that makes the finished curry taste brighter and more complete.
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Scatter fresh basil over the flatbread after it comes out of the oven, not before. The residual heat softens the leaves just enough while preserving their fresh flavor and vibrant color.
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Fresh basil is what makes this pasta salad taste unmistakably like summer. It pairs beautifully with the vegetables and dressing while keeping the entire dish light and refreshing.
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This recipe proves pesto isn't just for pasta. Basil brings freshness to smoky grilled chicken, making the skewers equally at home at a backyard cookout or an easy weeknight dinner.
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