What Pairs Well With Basil?

Picture of a Basil

Category: Herb

Basil is a popular herb that is commonly used in cooking. It has a strong, sweet, and slightly peppery flavor with a hint of mint. Basil is often used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in dishes like pesto, caprese salad, and tomato sauce. It can be used fresh or dried, and is known for its aromatic and flavorful qualities.

Flavor Profiles:

  • Savory
  • Sweet
  • Herbal
  • Peppery
  • Mildly Bitter
  • Earthy

What goes with Basil:

  • ChocolateThe bitter and rich flavor of dark chocolate complements the aromatic and slightly sweet flavor of basil, making it a surprising but delicious combination.
  • Sugar
  • ArugulaArugula pairs well with basil because both herbs have a peppery and slightly sweet flavor profile that complements each other.
  • Balsamic VinaigretteBalsamic vinaigrette pairs well with basil because the sweet and tangy flavors of the vinegar complement the fresh and aromatic taste of the herb.
  • LemonsThe bright and citrusy flavor of lemons brings out the sweetness of basil, adding a refreshing twist to dishes.
  • ChickenBasil’s herbal and slightly sweet flavor works well with chicken’s mild, savory taste, adding a burst of freshness and depth to grilled or baked chicken dishes.
  • GarlicGarlic pairs well with basil because their flavors complement each other, creating a harmonious and aromatic combination.
  • Olive OilOlive oil pairs well with basil because its fruity and peppery notes complement the herb’s sweet and slightly spicy flavor.
  • PastaPasta pairs well with basil because the herb’s fresh and aromatic flavor complements the rich and savory taste of the pasta.
  • Parmesan CheeseParmesan cheese pairs well with basil because the nutty and salty flavor of the cheese complements the fresh and aromatic taste of the herb.
  • Feta CheeseThe tangy and salty flavor of feta cheese complements the fresh and aromatic taste of basil.
  • TomatoesThey are a classic pairing with basil in dishes like Caprese salad and margherita pizza, as the fresh, slightly sweet flavor of tomatoes complements the pungent, slightly minty flavor of basil.
  • LemonThe acidity and brightness of lemon juice or zest can help cut through the richness of basil-infused dishes and add a refreshing note.
  • BreadBread pairs well with basil because the herb’s fresh and aromatic flavor complements the mild and neutral taste of bread.
  • Balsamic VinegarBalsamic vinegar pairs well with basil because the sweet and tangy flavors of the vinegar complement the fresh and aromatic qualities of the herb.
  • Pine NutsThe buttery, slightly sweet flavor of pine nuts complements basil’s pungent flavor and adds a satisfying crunch to dishes like pesto and salads.
  • Lemon JuiceLemon juice pairs well with basil because the citrusy acidity of the juice complements the fresh, herbaceous flavor of the basil.
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • BaguetteBaguette pairs well with basil because the herb’s fresh and aromatic flavor complements the crusty texture and subtle taste of the bread.
  • Heavy Cream
  • Mozzarella CheeseMozzarella cheese pairs well with basil because the fresh, herbaceous flavor of the basil complements the mild, creamy taste of the cheese.
  • MozzarellaMozzarella pairs well with basil because the fresh, herbal flavor of the basil complements the mild, creamy taste of the mozzarella.
  • Tomato
  • StrawberriesThe sweet and tart flavor of strawberries complements the sweet aroma of basil, creating a delicious and fresh taste.
  • Chicken Broth
  • Red Pepper Flakes
  • Bread Slices – Bread slices pair well with basil because the herb’s fresh and aromatic flavor complements the neutral taste and texture of the bread.