Are you looking for ways to add a little flavor to your meals? Basil is the perfect ingredient to spice things up! Not only is it full of flavor, but it also provides many health benefits.
In this article, we’ll show you how to use fresh basil and share seven delicious recipes.
From a classic basil pesto sauce to a basil and cheese sandwich, you’ll find something to please everyone’s taste buds! So, let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Short Answer
Fresh basil can be used in a variety of ways.
It is a popular ingredient used in Italian and Mediterranean cooking, and can be used to make pesto, added to soups and sauces, or used as a garnish.
You can also use it to make herbal tea, or as an ingredient in salads.
Fresh basil can be stored in the refrigerator and will last for several days.
How to Use Fresh Basil
Using fresh basil is easy and can add a delicious flavor to any dish.
To use fresh basil, start by removing the leaves from the stem.
Once this is done, chop the leaves into small pieces.
If using in a cooked dish, add the basil toward the end of the cooking process to retain the flavor.
Fresh basil can also be used to make a flavorful pesto sauce or added to olive oil and garlic for a delicious marinade.
It can also be added to salads, sandwiches, soups, sauces, and more! Fresh basil is a great way to add flavor to any meal.
When using fresh basil, its important to remember to store it properly.
The best way to store it is to place it in a glass of water with the stems submerged and the leaves sticking out of the water.
Place the glass in the refrigerator and the basil should stay fresh for up to a week.
When purchasing fresh basil, look for bright green leaves and no discoloration or wilting.
The basil should have a fresh, herbal aroma.
Avoid buying pre-chopped basil as it will not have the same flavor as fresh basil.
The Benefits of Fresh Basil
Fresh basil is a popular herb that is well known for its unique flavor and versatility in the kitchen.
It is a key ingredient in many dishes from Italian, Thai, Mexican, and Asian cuisines, and can be used in a variety of ways.
Not only is it a tasty addition to your meals, but it also offers a range of health benefits.
Fresh basil is a nutrient-dense food that is low in calories and contains a range of vitamins and minerals.
It is an excellent source of vitamin K, a nutrient that is important for blood clotting and bone health.
It also contains vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, iron, and calcium.
Basil also contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can help protect against various diseases.
Fresh basil is also rich in essential oils, including the potent compound eugenol.
Eugenol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress.
It may also have antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help boost the immune system.
In addition to these health benefits, fresh basil also adds a unique flavor to dishes.
Its fragrant aroma and mild flavor can add depth and complexity to a range of dishes, from sauces and salads to sandwiches and soups.
Fresh basil is a great way to add flavor to any meal.
Basil Pesto Sauce Recipe
Basil pesto sauce is one of the most versatile recipes you can make with fresh basil.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make.
To begin, you’ll need a handful of fresh basil leaves, some garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt and pepper.
Start by combining the basil, garlic, and pine nuts in a food processor and pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped.
Then, add the Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt and pepper to the food processor and pulse again until everything is fully blended.
Serve the pesto sauce over pasta, spread it onto sandwiches, or use it as a dip for vegetables.
It’s a delicious way to add flavor to any meal!
Marinade with Fresh Basil, Olive Oil, and Garlic Recipe
Marinating with fresh basil, olive oil, and garlic is a great way to infuse flavor into your favorite dishes.
Using a combination of these three ingredients adds a unique and complex flavor that can take any dish to the next level.
To make a marinade, start by removing the leaves from the stems of your fresh basil and chopping them into small pieces.
Then, add the chopped basil to a bowl along with extra-virgin olive oil and minced garlic.
Mix the ingredients together until they are fully incorporated and you have a delicious marinade.
Use this marinade to coat chicken, steak, fish, vegetables, or whatever else youre cooking.
Let the flavors of the marinade infuse into the food by marinating for a few hours or overnight.
Once youve marinated, cook the food as you normally would and enjoy the added flavor the marinade has given to the dish.
Basil and Tomato Salad Recipe
Basil and tomato salad is a classic summer dish that is bursting with flavor.
It can be served as a side dish or as a light meal.
The combination of fresh tomatoes and basil is perfect for a summery salad.
To make this delicious recipe, all you need is fresh tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, salt and pepper.
To start, cut the tomatoes into wedges and place them in a bowl.
Then, finely chop the basil leaves and add them to the bowl.
Drizzle the tomatoes and basil with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Give everything a good mix and then allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors marry.
When ready to serve, you can either serve the salad as is or you can add some extra ingredients for extra flavor.
For example, you could add some crumbled feta cheese, diced red onion, or some freshly cracked black pepper.
This basil and tomato salad is the perfect dish for a summer BBQ.
It is light, fresh, and full of flavor.
Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious and refreshing salad, this is the perfect option.
Enjoy!
Basil and Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Nothing beats the classic basil and cheese sandwich. This simple recipe is a great way to use fresh basil and add some delicious flavor to your lunch. To make this sandwich, start by gathering your ingredients: two slices of bread, fresh basil leaves, cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar), and butter. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread and layer the cheese and basil on top. Place the other slice of bread on top and press down lightly. Place the sandwich in a hot skillet and cook for a few minutes until the cheese melts and the outside is golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy! This delicious sandwich is a great way to use fresh basil and make a simple yet flavorful meal.
Basil Soup Recipe
Basil soup is one of the most delicious and versatile dishes you can make with fresh basil.
It can be served as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a savory appetizer.
To make basil soup, start by sauting onions, garlic, and celery in some olive oil.
Once the vegetables are soft, add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and chopped fresh basil.
Simmer the soup until the vegetables are tender, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
For a creamier version, add some heavy cream or coconut milk.
Serve the soup with a dollop of pesto and fresh basil leaves for garnish.
Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Fresh basil is an incredibly versatile and flavorful ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.
From sauces and salads to sandwiches and soups, the possibilities are endless.
Not only does it add flavor to your meals, but it also has some health benefits.
With these 7 delicious recipes, you now have the perfect way to incorporate fresh basil into your cooking.
So what are you waiting for? Get creative and start exploring all the culinary delights that fresh basil has to offer!