Few herbs capture the spirit of summer like basil. Whether you’re snipping it fresh from your garden or picking up a bunch at the market, its bright aroma and flavor can transform even the simplest recipe. From refreshing lemonades to hearty pastas, basil is the ingredient that instantly says summer.
To keep these ideas both inspiring and reliable, we dug around every corner of the internet for our favorite recipes from foodies who get it. Their guidance ensures that the recipes and tips here aren’t just delicious and practical for home cooks and gardeners alike.
1. Cheesy Chickpea Salad
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This vibrant dish combines traditional flavors with protein-packed chickpeas for a light yet filling summer salad. Fresh basil, mozzarella (or feta, like the picture), and juicy tomatoes come together with chickpeas for extra texture and heartiness. It’s the perfect make-ahead lunch or meatless dinner option that feels satisfying but not heavy.
Pro Tip: For extra creaminess, add diced avocado or a drizzle of pesto.
How to make it: Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, then toss them with halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Dress with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper just before serving.
2. Pesto Shrimp in 15 Minutes
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Shrimp and basil pesto are a flavor-packed pairing that delivers dinner in no time. The briny sweetness of shrimp balances beautifully with the herbaceous punch of basil, creating a meal that tastes both light and indulgent. Best of all, it requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep.
Time-Saving Tip: Make the pesto ahead of time and freeze it in ice cube trays for easy weeknight use.
How to make it: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté shrimp with garlic until pink, then remove from heat. Toss with a few spoonfuls of pesto and serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Finish with lemon juice and fresh basil.
3. Strawberry-Basil Caprese
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Sweet strawberries give Caprese salad a summery twist, making this version both refreshing and unexpected. The combination of strawberries, mozzarella, and basil highlights sweet and savory flavors in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that looks beautiful on the table and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Flavor Enhancing Tip: Use a thick balsamic glaze for the best contrast against the fruit.
How to make it: Layer sliced strawberries, mozzarella, and basil leaves on a platter. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze, then sprinkle lightly with sea salt before serving.
4. Basil Lemonade
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Herbal lemonade is a refreshing way to showcase basil while cooling off in summer. The basil adds a subtle peppery note that balances the tartness of lemons, creating a drink that’s both sophisticated and family-friendly. It’s perfect for garden parties, picnics, or everyday sipping.
Upgrading Tip: Swap half the water for sparkling water for a bubbly twist.
How to make it: Make a simple syrup by simmering sugar, water, and fresh basil leaves. Strain, then combine with lemon juice and cold water. Serve over ice with basil sprigs and lemon slices.
5. Basil Butter Spread
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Herbed butter with basil is one of those simple kitchen tricks that elevate almost anything. Spread on bread, melted over vegetables, or brushed on grilled meats, basil butter adds instant garden-fresh flavor. It’s versatile, easy to make, and keeps well in the fridge or freezer.
Bonus Tip: Freeze extra basil butter in small portions for quick use later.
How to make it: Mix softened butter with chopped basil, garlic, lemon zest, and salt. Chill until firm, then spread or slice as needed.
6. Basil Tomato Soup
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Classic tomato soup gets a vibrant lift from fresh basil, turning comfort food into something garden-fresh and exciting. This soup is cozy yet light, making it ideal for pairing with sandwiches or salads. Using fresh summer tomatoes really makes a difference in flavor for making your own soup, or just add fresh chopped basil to a pre-made soup if you’re short one time.
Tasty Tip: Add a swirl of cream at the end for richness.
How to make it: Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil, add chopped tomatoes and broth, then simmer. Blend until smooth, stir in fresh basil, and adjust seasoning before serving.
7. Grilled Cheese with Basil
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A humble grilled cheese becomes gourmet with the addition of basil leaves. The basil cuts through the richness of melted cheese and adds a fresh, herbal balance. It’s simple enough for lunch but satisfying enough for a casual dinner with soup or salad.
Tasty Tip: Add sliced tomato for a Caprese-style twist.
How to make it: Butter bread slices, layer with mozzarella, tomato, and basil, then grill until golden brown and melty. Serve hot.
8. Basil Pizza Margherita
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Margherita pizza is the ultimate showcase for basil, where each leaf adds a burst of freshness against tomatoes and mozzarella. It’s a timeless recipe that proves simple ingredients often taste the best. Perfect for pizza night, this version lets basil truly shine.
Baking Tip: Always add basil after baking so it stays bright and flavorful.
How to make it: Spread tomato sauce on pizza dough, add mozzarella, and bake until bubbly. Top with fresh basil leaves before slicing.
9. Basil Smoothie
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Adding basil to a fruit smoothie gives it a unique twist that’s both refreshing and nourishing. The herb pairs surprisingly well with tropical fruits (my personal favorite is strawberry), making it ideal for breakfast or a post-workout snack. It’s a fun way to sneak more herbs into your diet.
Flavor Tip: Use frozen fruit for a thicker, creamier texture.
How to make it: Blend mango, pineapple, or strawberries with yogurt, honey, and a handful of basil leaves. Serve cold.
10. Basil Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
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This simple pasta dish celebrates the flavors of garlic, olive oil, and basil. It’s an easy recipe that feels elegant without requiring complicated ingredients. A weeknight staple, it can be dressed up with Parmesan or served as a side to grilled meats.
Bonus Tip: Reserve some pasta water to help the sauce cling to noodles.
How to make it: Cook pasta, then toss with garlic sautéed in olive oil, fresh basil, Parmesan, and a splash of pasta water. Serve immediately.
11. Basil Ice Cream
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Herb-infused ice cream might sound unusual, but basil brings a subtle, refreshing twist to dessert. Its peppery-sweet flavor pairs beautifully with fruit, making this an adventurous but surprisingly versatile treat. It’s a great way to impress guests with something unexpected.
Dessert Tip: Pair with strawberry shortcake or lemon bars for a perfect match.
How to make it: Heat cream and milk with basil, then strain. Mix with egg yolks and sugar, churn in an ice cream maker, and freeze until set.
12. Basil Pesto Potato Salad
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Potato salad gets a lighter, fresher spin when you swap mayo for pesto. The basil brings brightness to the creamy potatoes, making it a side dish that works just as well at barbecues as on weeknight dinner tables.
Pro Tip: Toss potatoes with dressing while warm for better flavor absorption.
How to make it: Boil potatoes until tender, then toss with pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
13. Basil Garlic Bread
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Basil takes garlic bread to a whole new level, adding freshness to the savory crunch. It’s a perfect side for pasta, soups, or even as a stand-alone snack. Homemade basil garlic bread is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Flavor Boosting Tip: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan before baking for extra flavor.
How to make it: Mix softened butter with garlic and chopped basil, spread on bread, and bake until golden and fragrant.
14. Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
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Basil is a key player in many Asian stir-fries, where it adds a fragrant, slightly peppery note. Combined with chicken and vegetables, it makes a quick, colorful, and satisfying dish. It’s an excellent way to get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
Flavor Twist Tip: Add chili peppers for a Thai-inspired spicy kick.
How to make it: Stir-fry chicken with garlic, onion, and vegetables in soy sauce, then toss in fresh basil just before serving.
15. Basil Oil Drizzle
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This vibrant green oil is a simple way to elevate everyday dishes. Drizzle it over salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats for a professional-looking and tasting finish. It’s a great way to preserve basil when you have an abundance from the garden.
Preservation Tip: Keep refrigerated and use within a week for the best flavor.
How to make it: Blend basil with olive oil until smooth, strain, and store in a sealed jar. Use as a finishing touch.
16. Basil Hummus
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Classic hummus gets an upgrade with fresh basil, turning a traditional dip into something bright and unexpected. It’s perfect for spreading on sandwiches, dipping veggies, or serving with pita bread. The basil adds both color and a fresh garden flavor.
Upgrading Tip: Top with toasted pine nuts for crunch.
How to make it: Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and basil until creamy. Adjust with water for smoothness.
17. Basil Infused Vinegar
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Capture the essence of summer basil with this simple DIY vinegar infusion. It’s perfect for salad dressings, marinades, or even drizzling over grilled vegetables. Infused vinegars are also a beautiful homemade gift idea.
Flavor Tip: Use white wine vinegar for a clean, crisp base.
How to make it: Fill a jar with fresh basil, cover with vinegar, and steep for 12 weeks. Strain before storing in a glass bottle.
After trying these recipes, you’ll see how easily basil transforms everyday meals. The herb grows well in containers or garden beds, and regular harvesting keeps plants full and leafy all summer.
Want to enjoy basil year-round? Freeze pesto in small portions, dry the leaves, or infuse them into oils and vinegars. That way, the taste of summer can brighten your cooking even in cooler months.