The sweet, pungent aroma of fresh sweet basil can transport us to a Mediterranean paradise. This beloved herb is not only a staple in many cuisines but also a flavor enhancer that elevates dishes from ordinary to extraordinary. With its delicate leaves and summery fragrance, sweet basil is the perfect addition to any meal. From classic Italian dishes to international fusion recipes, sweet basil adds a depth of flavor and aroma that’s hard to resist.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of sweet basil. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy pasta dish or a refreshing summer treat, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Sweet Basil Pesto Pasta
This classic Italian recipe combines the flavors of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil with al dente pasta for a delicious and quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup freshly made sweet basil pesto (see below)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sweet Basil Pesto Recipe:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sweet basil pesto and Parmesan cheese. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and well combined with the pesto.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the pesto mixture and toss until the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Sweet Basil Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the sweetness of Thai basil with the savory taste of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Thai sweet basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add Thai sweet basil leaves, cumin, coriander powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
6. Add brown sugar and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Salad with Fresh Sweet Basil
Experience the simplicity and elegance of Italy with this classic Caprese salad recipe, featuring fresh sweet basil as its crowning glory. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a refreshing and flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– Fresh sweet basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Sprinkle chopped fresh sweet basil leaves over the cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served immediately, while the flavors are bright and the ingredients are at their freshest.
Sweet Basil and Tomato Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer that combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes with the savory flavor of basil on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh sweet basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 baguette slices, toasted
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the tomato mixture and toss to coat.
4. Toast baguette slices until lightly browned.
5. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture onto toasted bread, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sweet Basil Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your culinary creations with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of basil with the richness of olive oil. Perfect for cooking, dressing salads, or using as a finishing touch for dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh sweet basil leaves
– A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basil leaves with cold water and gently pat dry to remove excess moisture.
2. In a clean glass jar, combine the olive oil and basil leaves. Stir well to combine.
3. Store the mixture at room temperature away from direct sunlight for 2-4 days. Shake the jar daily to allow the flavors to meld.
4. After 2-4 days, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container. Discard the solids and reserve the infused oil.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Use this infused oil within a few weeks of making it for optimal flavor and aroma.
– Adjust the amount of basil to your taste, but keep in mind that sweet basil can be quite potent.
Sweet Basil Lemonade
Brighten up your day with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade, infused with the sweetness of basil and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the chopped basil leaves to the pitcher and muddle (gently press) them with a spoon or muddler to release their oils and flavor.
3. Stir in the water until well combined.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes, if desired, and garnish with additional basil leaves for a pop of color.
Cooking Time: None! This is a refreshing drink perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Sweet Basil and Garlic Butter Shrimp
Sweet Basil and Garlic Butter Shrimp: A flavorful and aromatic seafood dish that combines the brightness of basil with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and basil until well combined.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the butter mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sweet Basil Margherita Pizza
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic margherita pizza, elevated by the sweetness of fresh basil leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
– 2 cups (475ml) tomato sauce
– 8 oz (225g) mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 10-12 fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
5. Place fresh basil leaves on top of the cheese, slightly overlapping each other.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Basil and Strawberry Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of strawberries with the subtle flavor of basil, creating a unique and delicious treat perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh sweet basil leaves
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine strawberries, basil leaves, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and the basil is well combined with the fruit.
3. Add vanilla yogurt and milk. Blend until creamy and smooth.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes to chill and thicken.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Sweet Basil Coconut Curry
Sweet Basil Coconut Curry Recipe
This Sweet Basil Coconut Curry is a flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the brightness of fresh basil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and water or broth; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the chopped basil leaves; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Basil and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with the perfect blend of fresh basil and creamy mozzarella cheese. This recipe yields a flavorful and moist stuffed chicken that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped basil, garlic, and salt.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the basil mixture, then top with mozzarella cheese slices.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese and season with pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Basil and Peach Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet combines the sweetness of peaches with the subtle flavor of basil, perfect for a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups peaches, pureed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine peach puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped basil and lemon juice.
3. Let mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop sorbet into bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus freezing time)
Sweet Basil and Pineapple Salsa
Sweet Basil and Pineapple Salsa Recipe
Brighten up your meals with this refreshing sweet basil and pineapple salsa! This unique combination of flavors is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil leaves
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the pineapple, sweet basil, jalapeño, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready in minutes!
Sweet Basil and Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Roast potatoes with a twist by adding sweet basil and garlic for a flavorful side dish that pairs well with many meals. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges or small chunks
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh sweet basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preclean the potatoes and cut them into wedges or small chunks.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until they are well coated.
- Stir in the chopped sweet basil.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the potato mixture.
- Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Basil and Honey Glazed Salmon
This sweet and savory recipe elevates salmon to new heights with the combination of fresh basil, honey, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil leaves
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, basil, lemon juice, and olive oil.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Basil and Avocado Toast
Start your day with a deliciously fresh twist on classic toast. This sweet and savory combination is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil leaves
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the avocado.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. If desired, drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup for an added touch of sweetness.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Sweet Basil and Lemon Sorbet
A refreshing twist on traditional sorbet, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the subtle sweetness of basil.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and 1 cup of water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and chopped basil leaves.
4. Let mixture cool to room temperature.
5. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, transfer sorbet to an airtight container and store in the freezer.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus freezing time)
Sweet Basil and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Sweet Basil and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
Discover the perfect blend of creamy ricotta cheese, sweet basil, and tender pasta shells. This classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sweet basil
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, basil, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet side of basil with these 18 fragrant recipes! From classic Caprese salad to sweet and savory pasta dishes, and even refreshing drinks and desserts, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making Sweet Basil Pesto Pasta or Thai Sweet Basil Chicken, or go sweet with Sweet Basil Lemonade or Sweet Basil and Strawberry Smoothie. For a taste of the Mediterranean, indulge in Sweet Basil Margherita Pizza or Sweet Basil and Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken. Whatever you choose, these aromatic recipes are sure to delight your senses!
