spice
Basil — Nutrition & Culinary Profile
Fresh basil is a highly aromatic herb with a sweet, peppery flavor and subtle notes of anise and mint. It is the foundational ingredient of classic Italian pesto and pairs flawlessly with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Add it at the very end of cooking to preserve its delicate essential oils and vibrant green color.
Vitamins
Minerals
Culinary profile
Properties
Diets
Processing states
raw
Fresh, unprocessed ingredient. Store refrigerated.
boiled
Cooked in boiling water. Softer texture, some nutrient loss to water.
steamed
Steamed. Minimal nutrient loss, retains natural texture.
baked
Oven-baked. Moderate water loss, flavour concentration.
grilled
Grilled over high heat. Fat drips off, smoky flavour.
fried
Pan-fried or deep-fried in oil. Higher fat and calorie content.
smoked
Smoked. Extended shelf life, concentrated flavour, lower moisture.
frozen
Frozen at -18°C. Nutrition virtually unchanged. Thaw before use.
dried
Dried/dehydrated. Highly concentrated nutrients. Rehydrate before cooking.
pickled
Pickled in brine or vinegar. Acidic taste, extended shelf life.
Best pairings
Mozzarella cheese9.5 / 10
Tomato9.5 / 10
Garlic9.0 / 10
Olive oil9.0 / 10
Strawberry8.6 / 10
Pasta8.5 / 10
Lemon8.1 / 10
Peach8.1 / 10