Basil is one of those herbs that can make ANY dish taste better.
Whether you’re cooking pasta, making a salad, or even baking, basil adds a fresh flavor that’s hard to beat.
But sometimes, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut with how you use it.
That’s why I put together this list of 11 basil recipes.
You’ll find ideas for everything, from classic pesto to unexpected treats.
These recipes are perfect for any skill level – so whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll find something new to try.
So, if you’re ready to add some fresh flavor to your meals, these basil recipes are just what you need.
1. Fresh Pasta with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil
Fresh Pasta with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil is a wonderful summer dish.
The key is letting the sweet tomatoes and creamy mozzarella sit together before adding the hot pasta, which makes the flavors blend beautifully.
It is a simple and satisfying meal that comes together quickly.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
2. MPT (Mozzarella Pasta with Tomato and Basil)
This MPT, or Mozzarella Pasta with Tomato and Basil, is a quick and delicious recipe for a warm day.
You prepare the tomatoes and milky mozzarella ahead of time so the flavors soak together before meeting the hot pasta.
The result is a simple dish that tastes like a little taste of summer.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
3. Pad Kra Pao Gai (Thai Basil Chicken Stir Fry)
Pad Kra Pao Gai is a famous spicy Thai basil chicken stir fry you will find everywhere from street stalls to restaurants.
It is incredibly quick and easy to cook, needing only a handful of ingredients.
Serve it over jasmine rice with a fried egg for a truly satisfying meal.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
4. Potato Gnocchi with Basil and Sun-dried Tomatoes
Potato Gnocchi with Basil and Sun-dried Tomatoes is a hearty and flavorful pasta dish.
The soft, pillowy gnocchi pair perfectly with the sweet tang of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of fresh basil.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
5. Tomato Basil Soup with Garlic Toasts
Tomato Basil Soup with Garlic Toasts is comfort food at its best.
Get cozy on the sofa with a warm bowl of this rich, savory soup and some crunchy garlic bread for the perfect relaxing meal.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
6. White Bean Soup with Basil, Rosemary, and Garlic Croutons
White Bean Soup with Basil, Rosemary, and Garlic Croutons is a warm and hearty meal for a cold day.
It is creamy and flavorful with fresh herbs, and the crunchy garlic croutons add the perfect finishing touch.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
7. Pesto I
Pesto I is a classic basil sauce inspired by the traditional recipe from Genoa, Italy.
This version uses Romano cheese instead of the usual Parmesan for a sharper, saltier flavor.
It is incredibly versatile—try it on pasta, meat, or spread on toast for a quick snack.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
8. Pesto II
Pesto II is a simple, versatile sauce that follows the Italian tradition of fresh, herb-based sauces.
It is famous for adding a bright, herby flavor to a wide variety of dishes, not just pasta.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
9. Baked Chicken with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil
Baked chicken with fresh tomatoes and basil is a simple and flavorful dish for any weeknight.
The chicken thighs turn tender and juicy when baked with garlic and ripe tomatoes.
Fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic finish to this easy dinner.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
10. Basil Pesto Sauce
Basil pesto sauce is a classic Italian sauce that brings bright, fresh flavor to your table.
It works perfectly as a pasta sauce or a spread for sandwiches and wraps.
The combination of basil and pine nuts makes this pesto a versatile kitchen staple.
Recipe from Foodista.com.
11. Basil, Apple, Cheese and Honey Omelet
Basil, apple, cheese and honey omelet is a creative breakfast that blends sweet and savory tastes.
The apple and honey add a natural sweetness that balances the rich cheese and fragrant basil.
This omelet offers a delightful and easy start to your morning.
Recipe from Foodista.com.