basil

Fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, olive oil, and a bowl of green pesto on a kitchen counter

What Does Pesto Taste Like?

May 6, 2026June 13, 2026ting

Classic basil pesto tastes fresh, herbal, garlicky, salty, nutty, and rich from olive oil and cheese. It is usually sharp but not hot spicy.

Fresh basil leaves on a towel with basil and oil cubes in an ice cube tray and a freezer bag

Can You Freeze Basil?

April 11, 2026June 13, 2026ting

You can freeze basil, but the leaves soften after thawing. Freeze dry whole leaves or basil and oil cubes, then use them in sauces, soups, pesto, and cooked dishes.

Fresh basil with oregano, mint, parsley, spinach, arugula, thyme, tarragon, green sauce, tomatoes, garlic, lemon, and olive oil

Basil Substitute

April 10, 2026June 13, 2026ting

The best basil substitute depends on the recipe. Oregano works in cooked tomato sauces, while mint, parsley, arugula, or spinach work better in fresh dishes.

Fresh basil drying on a mesh rack with a hanging basil bundle and a jar of dried basil leaves

How to Dry Basil

January 25, 2026June 13, 2026ting

Dry basil by starting with clean, very dry leaves, then using air drying, a dehydrator, or the oven on low heat. Store crisp whole leaves in an airtight jar.

Basil, parsley, arugula, spinach, mint, cilantro, garlic, lemon, cheese, nuts, olive oil, and green pesto for pesto substitutes

Basil Substitute for Pesto

July 19, 2025June 13, 2026tingLeave a Comment

The best basil substitute for pesto is usually a blend: use a mild green such as spinach for body, then add parsley, arugula, mint, cilantro, or kale for flavor.

Fresh oregano with basil, thyme, parsley, dried oregano, and dried herb blend on a kitchen surface

Oregano Substitute

July 10, 2025June 15, 2026ting

The best oregano substitute depends on the recipe: marjoram is closest, thyme is sturdy, and basil is best for tomato dishes.

Margherita-style pizza with fresh basil leaves, tomatoes, mozzarella, dried herbs, olive oil, and a pizza cutter

Basil on Pizza

June 27, 2025June 13, 2026ting

Fresh basil is usually best added after pizza bakes, while dried basil works better in the sauce or before baking. Timing matters because fresh leaves wilt and darken under high heat.