You’ll Want to Make These 19 Recipes Before Your Basil Goes Bad

Basil goes bad fast, so if you’ve got some sitting in the fridge, now’s the time to put it to good use. These recipes aren’t just a way to save your herbs—they’re genuinely great. We’re talking fresh, bold flavors and super simple steps that make you want to keep cooking. Whether you’re feeding a group or just yourself, these are the kinds of dishes that actually make you excited to eat at home.

A picture of pasta with basil cream sauce in a bowl and forks. — Basil Cream Sauce. Photo credit: Urban Farmie

Basil Aioli

With garlic and lemon accents, this basil aioli adds a bold punch to any dish. It's an easy way to use fresh basil in spreads or as a dip for simple meals.
Get the Recipe: Basil Aioli

Thai Basil Pork

Thai Basil Pork comes together fast and hits a balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. The basil cuts through the richness and rounds out each bite with something fresh.
Get the Recipe: Thai Basil Pork

Basil Mayonnaise

This two-ingredient basil mayonnaise is smooth and vibrant, working well in wraps and sandwiches. It's a practical way to highlight basil's freshness without extra steps.
Get the Recipe: Basil Mayonnaise

Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Skillet

This cashew chicken skillet is made in one pan and comes together fast. Basil blends into the sauce to add brightness and balance the savory notes.
Get the Recipe: Thai Basil Cashew Chicken Skillet

Basil Cream Sauce

This basil cream sauce pairs rich texture with a fresh herb note, making it a fast, go-to choice for pasta. Ready in about 15 minutes, it's useful for quick weeknight meals when basil needs to shine.
Get the Recipe: Basil Cream Sauce

Basil Fried Rice

Basil fried rice puts an herby spin on a weeknight staple. It’s quick, versatile, and easy to customize with added proteins, with basil giving it a fragrant lift.
Get the Recipe: Basil Fried Rice

Basil Pesto

Made with six staple ingredients, this pesto alla Genovese fits easily into pasta, dips, or spreads. Basil takes center stage, giving the sauce a bright, green freshness that's great in warmer months.
Get the Recipe: Basil Pesto

Grilled Basil Butter Bay Scallops with Summer Vegetables

Grilled bay scallops with zucchini, corn, and tomatoes get a boost from a garlic basil butter sauce. Basil works well here to tie the vegetables and seafood together.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Basil Butter Bay Scallops with Summer Vegetables

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Two bowls of tomato soup with basil and tomatoes. — Roasted Tomato Basil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Roasted tomato basil soup uses just a few ingredients and simmers quickly. The basil ties everything together, making it a solid choice for cozy lunches or dinners.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato Basil Eggplant Noodles

Eggplant noodles tossed with tomato basil sauce and parmesan create a lighter meal that still feels complete. Basil keeps the flavors fresh and seasonal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Basil Eggplant Noodles

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Tomato and basil pair up in this creamy vegan pasta, offering depth and a smooth finish. It’s a practical way to get a rich sauce while using up fresh basil.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Basil and Mint Squash Noodles

These basil and mint squash noodles are light, quick, and simple to prepare. Basil brings a refreshing note that makes them especially fitting for warmer days.
Get the Recipe: Basil and Mint Squash Noodles

Authentic Italian Basil Pesto

Italian Basil Pesto – Pesto Genovese topped on bread. — Authentic Italian Basil Pesto. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This traditional basil pesto combines pine nuts, cheese, and oil for a rich yet simple sauce. It's a reliable way to use fresh basil and works well with pasta or bread.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Italian Basil Pesto

Brown Butter Shrimp with Parmesan Basil Corn Orzo

Brown butter shrimp served over parmesan basil corn orzo brings richness to the table in a short time. Basil adds a necessary freshness to the creamy base.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Shrimp with Parmesan Basil Corn Orzo

Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers

A plate of stacked orange basil ricotta pancakes with syrup pouring onto it. — Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These Thai basil chicken skewers bring heat and depth to the grill, with basil adding a sharp contrast to the spice. Quick to prepare and perfect for casual gatherings or dinner prep.
Get the Recipe: Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers

Low Carb Gnocchi Tomato Basil

Brown plate with gnocci, tomatoes and basil leaves. — Low Carb Gnocchi Tomato Basil. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

Tomato basil gnocchi is hearty without being heavy, and easy enough to throw together on a weeknight. Basil keeps the sauce from feeling too dense.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Gnocchi Tomato Basil

Wax Beans with Garlic & Basil

Yellow wax beans sautéed with garlic and basil make a straightforward side dish. Basil adds brightness and pairs especially well with the beans’ mild flavor.
Get the Recipe: Wax Beans with Garlic & Basil

Creamy Basil Vinaigrette

This basil vinaigrette mixes easily with pantry staples and works on salads, grains, or vegetables. The basil stands out and brings a bright, herb-forward note to any dish.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Basil Vinaigrette

Orange Basil Ricotta Pancakes

Orange basil ricotta pancakes have a soft texture with a subtle, fresh lift from basil. They work well for breakfast or brunch when you want something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Orange Basil Ricotta Pancakes