If you love fresh, bold flavors, this list is full of inspiration. Whether you’re in the mood for a light cocktail, a hearty dinner, or a refreshing salad, basil brings its signature aroma and taste to every dish. From drinks to desserts, these recipes show just how versatile this herb can be.
Many of these dishes are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re tossing basil into a pasta, blending it into a cocktail, or using it to brighten up a summer salad, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy its fresh, herbal goodness.
So why not try something new? Scroll through to find creative ways to bring basil into your kitchen, and discover a new favorite along the way!
Basil Martini
A fresh spin on the classic martini, blending vodka with basil, mint, and citrus for a smooth, herbaceous cocktail. A sophisticated choice for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Basil Martini
Hugo Basil Spritz
This lighter take on an Italian spritz swaps Aperol for fresh basil, creating a crisp, aromatic drink. Perfect for warm-weather sipping!
Get the Recipe: Hugo Basil Spritz
Smoked Tomato Basil Soup
Smoked tomatoes, basil, garlic, and onions come together in this rich, comforting soup. A touch of cream adds smoothness, making it great for any season.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Tomato Basil Soup
Perfect Grilled Ribeye Steaks with Basil Garlic Butter
Juicy, perfectly grilled ribeye steaks get a boost of flavor with a simple basil garlic butter. A foolproof recipe for a steakhouse-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Grilled Ribeye Steaks with Basil Garlic Butter
Lemon Basil Mocktail
A bright and bubbly mix of fresh lemon, fragrant basil, and seltzer. A refreshing, alcohol-free drink with endless ways to customize.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Basil Mocktail
Roast Tomato Mozzarella & Basil Appetizer
This easy appetizer layers roasted tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil for a simple yet elegant dish. Great for entertaining or a quick snack.
Get the Recipe: Roast Tomato Mozzarella & Basil Appetizer
Basil Sparkling Water
Basil-infused sparkling water with lemon for a crisp, refreshing drink. Perfect for hot days or whenever you need a flavorful pick-me-up.
Get the Recipe: Basil Sparkling Water
Easy Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe
A classic mix of fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, and pine nuts. This homemade pesto is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or dipping.
Get the Recipe: Easy Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe
Simple Lemon Basil Pesto
A bright and zesty version of basil pesto, with a splash of lemon to bring out the flavors. Ready in 10 minutes for a fresh twist on a classic.
Get the Recipe: Simple Lemon Basil Pesto
Shrimp Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil
Juicy shrimp, ripe tomatoes, and basil come together in this quick, flavorful pasta dish. A simple, satisfying meal for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Pasta with Tomatoes and Basil
Fresh Tomato Basil & Burrata Salad
Creamy burrata, fresh tomatoes, and basil make a light, refreshing salad. A perfect way to enjoy peak summer produce.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Tomato Basil & Burrata Salad
Strawberry Basil & Honey Goat Cheese Quesadillas
A unique blend of sweet strawberries, creamy goat cheese, and fragrant basil in a crispy tortilla. Great as a light lunch or unexpected dessert.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Basil & Honey Goat Cheese Quesadillas
Strawberry Basil Lemonade
A naturally sweetened lemonade infused with fresh strawberries and basil. A refreshing summer drink with just the right balance of tart and sweet.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Basil Lemonade
Strawberry Basil Cider Slushies
A three-ingredient frozen drink combining strawberries, cider, and basil. Perfect for cooling down on a hot day!
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Basil Cider Slushies
Basil Mint Squash Noodles
Spiralized squash tossed with fresh basil and mint for a light, refreshing dish. Works as a side or a quick, no-cook meal.
Get the Recipe: Basil Mint Squash Noodles
Garlic Basil Wax Beans
Tender wax beans sautéed with garlic and fresh basil for a simple, flavorful side dish that highlights summer produce.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Basil Wax Beans
Basil Nectarine Upside Down Cake
A moist, upside-down cake infused with basil and topped with caramelized nectarines. A unique dessert that pairs well with coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe: Basil Nectarine Upside Down Cake
Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Skillet
A one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken, crunchy cashews, and fresh basil in a sweet-savory sauce. Quick, easy, and great over rice!
Get the Recipe: Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Skillet
Tomato Basil Eggplant Noodles
Eggplant noodles tossed with a simple tomato basil sauce and plenty of Parmesan. A fresh, meatless meal that’s full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Eggplant Noodles
Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil
Chicken breasts are sliced and stuffed with melty mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil for a fast, flavorful dinner ready in 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Hasselback Chicken Stuffed with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil
Basil Julep
This twist on the classic mint julep swaps in fresh basil for a smooth, herbaceous kick. Perfect for warm-weather whiskey lovers.
Get the Recipe: Basil Julep
Basil Simple Syrup
A quick homemade syrup infused with fresh basil, perfect for adding a subtle herbal note to cocktails, teas, and lemonades.
Get the Recipe: Basil Simple Syrup
Strawberry Basil Margaritas
A fruity, herb-infused margarita with fresh strawberries and basil. Great for taco night, summer parties, or a fun twist on a classic cocktail.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Basil Margaritas
Authentic Italian Basil Pesto – Pesto Genovese
A traditional Italian pesto made with fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil. Smooth, rich, and full of classic Mediterranean flavor.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Italian Basil Pesto – Pesto Genovese
Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers with Cashew Sauce and Gremolata Topping
Grilled chicken skewers packed with Thai-inspired spices and fresh basil, served with a creamy cashew sauce and a zesty gremolata topping.
Get the Recipe: Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers with Cashew Sauce and Gremolata Topping