Creative ways to use basil leaves in your meals
What's the story
Basil leaves are a versatile herb that can add a zing to the flavor of any dish.
Famous for their fragrance, basil leaves are a common sight across kitchens around the world.
They can be added to dishes in multiple ways, making food taste amazing and adding a fresh touch to daily cooking.
Here are a few practical uses of basil leaves that will make your meals delightful.
Flavor boost
Fresh basil pesto
Fresh basil pesto is a simple yet delicious addition to many a dish.
Blend fresh basil leaves with olive oil, garlic, nuts, and cheese, and you have a vibrant sauce that goes well with pasta or as a spread on bread.
Not only does this homemade pesto serve as an alternative to store-bought ones, you can also control the ingredients for a fresher taste.
Aromatic touch
Basil-infused oils
Basil-infused oils give a nice aroma to salads and roasted vegetables.
To make this infusion, mix fresh basil leaves with olive oil and let it sit for a couple of days before straining out the leaves.
The oil captures the essence of basil and can be drizzled over dishes just before serving for an added layer of flavor.
Refreshing brew
Basil tea
Basil tea is another refreshing beverage that plays with the natural flavor of basil leaves.
Simply steep fresh or dried basil in hot water and you have an herbal tea that is as soothing as it is invigorating.
You can enjoy this tea hot or cold and it may even prove to be good for digestion when consumed regularly.
Visual appeal
Garnishing with fresh leaves
Using fresh basil leaves as a garnish not just looks pretty but also makes the dish more aromatic.
Be it sprinkled over soups or placed on top of salads, these bright green leaves add color and fragrance.
Without compromising on the flavors of other ingredients of your meal, they do so, making them an ideal addition for a touch of freshness and beauty.
Versatile addition
Incorporating into sauces
Incorporating chopped basil into sauces, be it tomato sauce or creamy dressings, can significantly enhance their flavor profile.
The herb's unique taste complements tomatoes particularly well, but also works harmoniously with other ingredients, be it garlic or lemon juice, when creating diverse sauces from scratch at home.