10 Best Basil Substitutes for Cooking
When you're in the kitchen ready to create a delicious dish, discovering that you’re out of basil can feel like a culinary roadblock, but fear not — there are plenty of basil substitutes that can save your recipe without compromising on flavor.
Whether whipping up homemade pasta sauces or experimenting with new flavors in a salad, knowing the right basil substitute can be a game-changer. But what are the best alternatives and how can you use them effectively? Or maybe you're just curious about how to mix things up with different herbs?
From oregano’s earthy notes to the bright freshness of mint, this guide features all the top basil substitutes that can bring your cooking to life, regardless of what you've got on hand.
Jump to Section
What Is Basil Used for in Cooking?
Basil, a member of the mint family, is a well-loved herb known for its sweet and savory flavor profile. Its versatility makes it a staple in various cuisines, particularly Italian, Mediterranean and Asian dishes. Fresh basil is often used to add a vibrant, aromatic touch to salads, desserts and cocktails, while dried basil is preferred for its concentrated flavor in cooked dishes like sauces and stews.
Sweet basil is the most common type of basil and is heavily used in Italian cuisine. Thai basil is another common type. Frequently found in Southeast Asian dishes, it's known for its anise-like aroma and slightly spicy flavor. While these are two of the most popular varieties, you may also discover lemon basil, cinnamon basil, purple basil, holy basil (Tulsi), lettuce leaf basil and Cuban basil on your grocery shelves.
Fresh vs. Dried Basil
Fresh basil is prized for its bright, aromatic qualities that enhance dishes like Caprese salads and pesto sauces. Its mellow flavor allows for generous use in recipes, making it ideal for dishes with other raw ingredients. It can also be blanched and added to dishes in a similar way to blanched spinach, just with a lot more flavor.
On the other hand, dried basil offers a more intense flavor, suitable for cooked dishes where it can blend seamlessly with other ingredients, such as in tomato sauces or as a seasoning for meats.
Understanding when to use fresh versus dried basil can be a valuable lesson. You can discover more about how to use both variations of this herb by attending online cooking classes or in-person cooking classes near you, where the nuances of these ingredients are explored in depth.
The 10 Best Basil Alternatives
1. Oregano
Oregano stands out as an excellent basil substitute due to its similar earthy and aromatic taste. This herb’s flavor profile notably makes it a great choice in Mediterranean and Italian dishes. If you’re wondering: "What can I substitute for basil?", oregano is a very reliable answer.
The best way to use oregano as a basil alternative is in tomato-based sauces, sprinkled over pizzas or incorporated into braises. Whether you're whipping up a classic tomato basil pasta or a hearty stew, oregano can step in seamlessly.
To substitute for basil, use fresh oregano in a 1:2 ratio, meaning you’ll need twice the amount of oregano to achieve a comparable flavor. If you’re using dried oregano, use slightly less to start, taste the sauce and adjust as needed.
2. Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs that’s a fantastic herb substitute for basil. This mix typically also combines oregano, rosemary, marjoram and thyme, offering a well-rounded flavor that complements many dishes.
This seasoning is particularly useful in sauces like the base of a Margherita flatbread, mixed into marinades for meat and sprinkled with olive oil over roasted vegetables, providing a familiar taste when you need a basil substitute. For the best results, use a 2:1 ratio, meaning you’ll use half the amount of Italian seasoning as you would basil.
3. Thyme
With an earthy flavor and subtle hints of mint and lemon, thyme is a herb that closely mimics basil. It is a great substitute in cooked dishes and, like basil, comes in fresh and dried forms.
Thyme works especially well in heavy sauces and marinara, where its robust flavor can shine through. When using thyme as a basil substitute, use half the amount called for in the recipe. Both fresh and dried, its concentrated flavor means a little goes a long way.
4. Rosemary
Rosemary's warm, peppery flavor makes it a noteworthy herb substitute for basil in many savory dishes. This herb captures the essence of basil's flavor while adding its own unique twist, making it a suitable substitution for recipes like a hearty stew.
This basil alternative is best used in marinades, roasted potatoes and other savory dishes where its strong flavor can be appreciated. To substitute for basil, start with half the amount of dried or fresh rosemary and adjust to taste as needed.
5. Sage
Sage brings a robust, earthy flavor with hints of mint and lemon, making it a strong basil substitution. Its potent flavor profile works best in stuffings, sauces and savory dishes where you need a herb that can hold its own and is great in both dried or fresh form.
It’s important to note that because of its distinct flavor, sage can be a good option if you have nothing else on hand, but it’s best used sparingly as a basil substitute. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
6. Tarragon
Tarragon offers a subtle bitterness and an intense flavor that can serve as an exciting basil substitute. It's particularly effective in dressings, sauces and poultry dishes, where its distinctive taste can uplift the overall flavor profile.
When substituting basil for tarragon, use a 1:1 ratio. This balance guarantees that the dish retains its intended flavor without being overwhelmed by the tarragon.
7. Mint
Mint might not be the first herb you think of when considering a basil alternative, but its sweet, fresh flavor can work wonders in the right dish. You can also mix it with sweet basil to make it the ideal Thai basil substitute.
The combination replicates the spicy and aromatic qualities of Thai basil, as mint adds a refreshing note that complements the peppery sweetness of sweet basil — perfect when you’re in a pinch and can’t find any Thai basil for your Thai red curry.
Mint is especially delicious as a basil alternative in salads and even beverages, where its bright taste can complement other ingredients. When using mint as a substitute for basil, stick to a 1:1 ratio. This helps the dish remain balanced and the mint doesn’t overpower other flavors.
8. Parsley
Parsley is a mild, peppery herb that can work well as a basil substitute, especially when you want to avoid overpowering the dish. Its subtle flavor makes it ideal for garnishes, salads and light dishes where a more robust herb might be too much.
Use fresh parsley in a 1:1 ratio when substituting for basil. This allows you to maintain the dish’s flavor profile while still incorporating a fresh herb.
9. Cilantro
Fresh cilantro, with its citrusy and peppery taste, is a bold basil substitute that works well in salsas, soups and Asian or Mexican-inspired dishes, among other cuisines. Its strong flavor can stand up to intense ingredients, making it a great choice for dishes that need a punch of freshness.
When using cilantro as a basil substitute, start with a 1:1 ratio. However, due to its strong flavor, it’s wise to adjust to taste and make sure it doesn’t overpower the dish. And always check if your diners have the gene that makes cilantro taste like soap — it’s a real thing!
10. Spinach
Spinach might not offer the same flavor as basil but it can still serve as a suitable basil substitute when texture and color are the primary concerns. Spinach’s mild taste makes it a versatile addition to many dishes, from vegan pesto to stir-fries.
Use spinach as a basil substitute when you need a fresh topping or a bright leafy green that blends well with other flavors. Since spinach doesn’t mimic basil’s flavor, use it instead to achieve the desired texture or color.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Finding the perfect basil substitute doesn’t have to be daunting. Whether you're looking for a flavor that mimics basil’s sweet, peppery notes or seeking a new twist with a different herb, there’s a world of options at your fingertips. The right basil substitute can even bring new depth and vibrancy to your dish.
Remember, the key is to experiment and adjust the ratios to find what works best for your taste buds. With these substitutes in your culinary toolkit, you’ll be prepared for any basil shortage!
For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT?
Join the conversation.