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What to cook with lemon basil is a fun question because this herb brings a bright, citrusy twist to so many dishes.
You can cook with lemon basil in everything from quick pastas and grilled proteins to fresh salads, refreshing drinks, and even homemade desserts.
The key is understanding that lemon basil has a softer, more delicate flavor than traditional sweet basil, with a natural lemony note that doesn’t need much help to shine.
It’s one of those herbs that instantly wakes up a dish, making even a simple weeknight meal taste like something special.
In this post, we’ll explore what to cook with lemon basil, from savory mains to sweet treats, and share plenty of ideas so you can start using this gorgeous herb every single day.
Let’s dive right into the kitchen and get inspired.
What to Cook with Lemon Basil for Savory Dishes
When you’re wondering what to cook with lemon basil, savory recipes are the easiest place to start because the herb pairs beautifully with garlic, olive oil, chicken, seafood, and fresh veggies.
Lemon basil adds a fragrant, zesty finish that brightens up heavy or rich flavors, so it’s perfect for cutting through creamy sauces and hearty meats.
Here are some of my favorite savory ways to cook with lemon basil.
1. Lemon Basil Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
One of the simplest answers to what to cook with lemon basil is a classic pasta dish with just a handful of ingredients.
Cook your favorite spaghetti or linguine, then toss it with extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and a generous handful of chopped lemon basil leaves.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
The lemon basil infuses the oil with its citrusy aroma, and you’ll end up with a light, refreshing pasta that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
Top it with grated Parmesan and fresh black pepper, and you’ll see exactly why lemon basil is a game-changer.
2. Grilled Chicken with Lemon Basil Butter
Another fantastic way to cook with lemon basil is by making a compound butter and melting it over grilled chicken.
Soften some butter and mix in finely chopped lemon basil, a little lemon zest, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
Roll it into a log, chill it, and then slice off rounds to place on top of hot, juicy grilled chicken breasts.
As the butter melts, the lemon basil perfumes the meat and creates a delicious, savory sauce.
You can also use this same butter on grilled fish, shrimp, or even corn on the cob if you’re looking for more ideas on what to cook with lemon basil.
3. Lemon Basil Pesto for Everything
If you love pesto, you’ll be thrilled to know that lemon basil makes a wonderful pesto base.
Instead of traditional sweet basil, use lemon basil leaves along with pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice.
This pesto is bright, herby, and perfect for tossing with pasta, spreading on sandwiches, or drizzling over roasted vegetables.
You can even use it as a marinade for chicken or shrimp before grilling.
The possibilities are endless, and this is one of the best answers to what to cook with lemon basil when you want something versatile.
What to Cook with Lemon Basil for Fresh Salads and Sides
When you’re thinking about what to cook with lemon basil, don’t forget that this herb is incredible raw in salads and fresh side dishes.
Its delicate leaves add a pop of color and a citrusy kick that brightens up any bowl.
Here are some fresh and easy ways to use lemon basil outside of the heat.
1. Watermelon and Lemon Basil Summer Salad
A classic summer salad gets even better when you cook with lemon basil as a finishing herb.
Cube some ripe watermelon and toss it with crumbled feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and a handful of torn lemon basil leaves.
Drizzle with a little balsamic glaze or a simple lime vinaigrette.
The sweetness of the watermelon pairs perfectly with the tangy feta and the lemony, herbaceous flavor of the basil.
This dish is refreshing, colorful, and guaranteed to impress at any barbecue.
2. Lemon Basil Rice or Quinoa Pilaf
For an easy side dish, cook rice or quinoa and then stir in chopped lemon basil right before serving.
You can also cook with lemon basil by adding it to the cooking liquid along with some lemon zest for a deeper infusion.
Fluff the grains and fold in the fresh herb, along with some toasted almonds or pistachios for crunch.
This simple pilaf goes wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as a standalone light lunch.
It’s a simple answer to what to cook with lemon basil when you need something quick and satisfying.
3. Lemon Basil Caprese Salad
If you’re a fan of the classic Caprese, try swapping out regular basil for lemon basil.
Layer slices of ripe tomato and fresh mozzarella, then tuck lemon basil leaves between them.
Drizzle with olive oil, a splash of balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
The lemon basil adds a whole new dimension of flavor, making this simple salad taste bright and elegant.
It’s one of the easiest things to cook with lemon basil, or in this case, assemble, because it takes only minutes.
What to Cook with Lemon Basil for Drinks and Desserts
You might not think of herbs in your glass or dessert bowl, but lemon basil is absolutely magical in drinks and sweets.
When you’re wondering what to cook with lemon basil beyond dinner, these ideas will blow your mind.
1. Lemon Basil Lemonade
Lemon basil and lemonade are a match made in heaven.
Make your favorite homemade lemonade, then muddle a handful of lemon basil leaves in the bottom of a glass before adding the liquid.
The herb releases its citrusy oils and adds an unexpected layer of freshness.
You can also blend the lemon basil into the lemonade itself for a smoother texture.
Serve over ice with a sprig of lemon basil for garnish, and you’ll have a refreshing drink that’s perfect for hot days.
For an adult version, add a splash of gin or vodka, and you’ve got a fantastic cocktail.
2. Lemon Basil Simple Syrup for Cocktails and Sodas
Another great way to know what to cook with lemon basil is by making a simple syrup.
Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan, bring to a simmer, then turn off the heat and steep a big handful of lemon basil leaves for about 20 minutes.
Strain out the leaves, and you’ll have a fragrant syrup that’s amazing in lemonade, iced tea, sparkling water, or cocktails.
This syrup also works beautifully over pancakes or drizzled over fresh fruit for dessert.
It’s such an easy trick, and it opens up so many possibilities for what to cook with lemon basil.
3. Lemon Basil Fruit Popsicles
For a healthy and refreshing dessert, make homemade fruit popsicles with lemon basil.
Blend fresh strawberries or peaches with a little honey, lemon juice, and a handful of lemon basil leaves.
Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and freeze until solid.
The lemon basil adds an herby, citrusy note that elevates the fruit flavor to a whole new level.
These are perfect for kids and adults alike, and they’re a great way to use up a large harvest of lemon basil.
So, What to Cook with Lemon Basil?
So, what to cook with lemon basil?
The answer is that you can cook with lemon basil in so many delicious ways, from savory pastas and grilled meats to fresh salads, refreshing drinks, and even frozen desserts.
Lemon basil is an incredibly versatile herb that brings a bright, citrusy note to almost anything you create.
Start with a simple pasta or a fresh salad, and then experiment with pesto, butters, syrups, and popsicles once you’re comfortable.
You’ll quickly discover that lemon basil is one of the most rewarding herbs to have in your kitchen.
So grab a bunch, get cooking, and enjoy all the wonderful flavors this herb has to offer.