Mammoth amounts of basil are sprouting in gardens around this time of the summer season. The plant thrives in optimal sunlight, needing at least six hours per day. And since it was deemed “one of the healthiest foods in the world,” this basil overflow is no burden. An integral ingredient in drinks, desserts and entrees, basil has the ability to make any taste of food seem clean and light. These recipes double as an antioxidant boost and summer refresher, so delve into at least one before the season wraps up.
1. Pineapple-Basil Agua Fresca
Photo by Elizabeth Layman
Sweet, tangy and refreshing? This agua fresca pairs pineapple with basil like a boss.
2. Pesto
Photo by Julie Maguire
This pasta topping will taste from-the-garden fresh, especially since it calls for 2 whole cups of basil.
3. Fancified Lunchables
Photo by Katherine Baker
This Lunchable hack takes a classy turn with sprigs of basil on top.
4. Avocado, Basil and Bacon Ice Cream
Photo by Hannah Lin
This savory and aromatic dessert will catch any basil skeptic’s attention.
5. Spaghetti Sauce Simplicity
Photo by Judy Holtz
This mash-up of ingredients doesn’t skimp on basil or oregano in order to perfect the classic spaghetti sauce.
6. Watermelon and Ricotta Salad
Photo by Megan Prendergast
Basil leaves were the only greens spared in “Leave Out the Leaves.” This watermelon salad recipe with basil is a must.
7. Meatball Sliders
Photo by Ben Abrahams
Sub lettuce with a basil leaf for these pop-in-your-mouth meatball sliders.
8. Fried Cheese Sandwich
Photo by Heather Harris
Have your own Euro-trip without leaving US turf with this fried sandwich, topped with garlicky herb and lemon mayonnaise infused with basil.
9. Strawberry Peach Guacamole
Photo by Natalie Cantave
Though the classic guacamole recipe has a soft spot in our hearts, we aren’t impartial to testing this guac mixed with strawberry, peaches and some chopped fresh basil.
10. Healthy Pesto Garlic Pasta
Photo by Parisa Soraya
Nutrient-dense and light on oil and cheese, this update offers a lighter take on a favorite pasta sauce.
11. Cucumber, Avocado & Tomato Salad
Photo by Maggie Gorman
The fresh basil leaves may be “optional” in this salad, but we say toss in the fresh leaves for an extra punch of flavor.
12. Mediterranean Pita Pizzas
Photo by Elyse Belarge
Simple as can be, these pita pizzas are topped with feta, olives, basil and classic tomato sauce, so you can eat like a Greek without paying crazy airfare.