Basil
Basil is a vibrant herb known for its sweet, slightly peppery flavour with hints of mint and anise. It brings a fresh, aromatic lift to dishes, making it a perfect finishing touch for grilled vegetables, meats, and smoky BBQ fare. When used over fire, basil's delicate leaves can quickly lose their flavour if exposed to high heat for too long. It is best added at the end of cooking or just before serving to preserve its bright, fragrant qualities. Fresh basil can also be lightly charred or tossed into warm dishes off the heat to release its essential oils without turning bitter. When buying basil, look for bright green leaves free from dark spots or wilting. Avoid bunches with yellowing or slimy stems as these indicate the herb is past its prime. To store basil, keep it in a glass of water like cut flowers or wrapped loosely in a damp paper towel inside the fridge. This helps maintain freshness for several days but use it quickly for optimal flavour.
Preparation
Tear rather than chop — cutting with a knife bruises and blackens. Always add at the very end of cooking or fresh on top of hot plates.
Cooking
Basil is a finishing herb, not for cooking. Brilliant scattered over charred tomatoes, grilled aubergine, and whole roasted peppers. Wilts instantly — add at the last second.
Health Notes
Basil is low in calories and packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress. It contains essential oils such as eugenol that have anti-inflammatory properties. Including fresh herbs like basil in your cooking can enhance flavour without adding salt or sugar, supporting a cleaner, whole-food approach to eating. While not a significant source of vitamins or minerals on its own, basil contributes to a balanced diet by encouraging the use of fresh, natural ingredients.
Substitutions
Cook With It
Recipes Using Basil
Basil and Lemon Oil
A vibrant, fresh-tasting oil infused with fresh basil and lemon. Perfect for drizzling over grilled fish, chicken, or vegetables.
Grilled Tomatoes with Basil
A simple side of ripe tomatoes, grilled until tender and juicy, then tossed with fresh basil. A perfect accompaniment to any barbecue.
Whole Grilled Mackerel with Tomato Salsa
Whole mackerel grilled until the skin is crisp, served with a sharp tomato, red onion, and caper salsa. Fast, flavourful, and affordable.
Charred Courgette Flowers with Ricotta
Delicate courgette flowers stuffed with ricotta, parmesan, and herbs, then grilled briefly until just wilted. A seasonal highlight in early summer.
Fire-Roasted Peppers with Basil
Sweet peppers charred whole on the grill until blackened and collapsed, peeled and dressed with basil, garlic, and olive oil. A Mediterranean staple.
Fire-Roasted Tomato Soup
Tomatoes charred on the grill until blistered and smoky, then blitzed into a velvety soup with garlic, basil, and olive oil. Garden to bowl.
