Basil
Basil is a tender leafy herb with a sweet, peppery, lightly anise-like aroma. It is often used fresh in sauces, salads, pasta, soups, and garnishes, and it loses some brightness with long cooking.
Identity
Tender fresh herb
Add it late when you want the aroma to stay fresh.
Fresh basil bruises easily and its aroma fades with heat. Tear or slice it close to serving, or blend it into sauces where oil protects the leaves. Dried basil is stronger in a different way and works better in longer-cooked sauces than as a fresh garnish.
Reference image
Basil leaves reference image.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Used In Recipes
Substitutions
Minced Parsley -> Basil
1/2 cup minced fresh parsley or basil leaves (or a mix of the two)
The source lists this as an alternative in the same ingredient row.
Vegan Parmesan -> Basil
Suggested garnishes: vegan Parmesan (or a light sprinkle of nutritional yeast) and fresh basil
The source lists this as an alternative in the same ingredient row.
Source: Best Vegan Lasagna
Parsley -> Basil
½ cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
The source lists this as an alternative in the same ingredient row.
Source: Tortellini Soup