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There’s nothing like the sweet, peppery aroma of fresh basil to signal that summer is in full swing. Whether it’s blended into creamy pesto, muddled into a cocktail, or sprinkled over juicy tomatoes, basil brings bright, bold flavor to all kinds of dishes. This collection of recipes highlights the many ways to enjoy basil — from grilled chicken to salads, pizzas, and even jam — perfect for summer dinners, parties, and easy weeknight meals. If you’ve got a garden full of basil or just grabbed a bunch at the market, get ready to use every leaf!

Three grilled chicken and vegetable kebabs on a white plate with a sprig of fresh basil and a striped cloth in the background.
Pineapple Basil Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Stetted.

Tomato Bruschetta

Three slices of baguette topped with diced tomatoes and basil are arranged on a white board, with a bowl of tomato mixture and basil leaves in the background.
Tomato Bruschetta. Photo credit: Happy Snackcidents.

This tomato bruschetta is the ultimate summer snack. Fresh basil and juicy tomatoes on crispy bread make it perfect for happy hour on the patio.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta

Pineapple-Basil Chicken Skewers

A plate of chicken skewers with pineapple and bell peppers.
Pineapple-Basil Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Stetted.

These tropical chicken skewers are bursting with flavor and perfect for grilling season. A basil-forward marinade adds a fresh twist to your next cookout or party.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple-Basil Chicken Skewers

Creamy Pesto Pasta

A bowl of pesto pasta with tomatoes.
Creamy Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Stetted.

This creamy pesto pasta is a go-to meal when you need something fast and flavorful. Ready in minutes, it’s even better with grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pesto Pasta

Basil Julep

A metal cup filled with crushed ice and garnished with basil leaves, with a basil plant, jigger, and glass jar in the background.
Basil Julep. Photo credit: Feast and West.

The Basil Julep is a refreshing twist on the classic mint julep. Fresh basil, bourbon, and sugar come together with crushed ice for a cool, herbaceous sip on hot days.
Get the Recipe: Basil Julep

Cucumber Tomato Salad with Pesto

A person holding a serving dish of cucumber tomato salad.
Cucumber Tomato Salad with Pesto. Photo credit: Stetted.

This easy salad brings summer to your plate with crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and bold pesto. It’s a perfect side dish for barbecues and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Tomato Salad with Pesto

30 Minute Caprese Chicken

A plate with spaghetti garnished with parsley, grilled chicken topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, balsamic glaze, and basil leaves.
30 Minute Caprese Chicken. Photo credit: Walking on Sunshine Recipes.

Fresh tomatoes and basil top crispy Italian breaded chicken cutlets for a vibrant, flavorful finish. A drizzle of balsamic glaze brings it all together.
Get the Recipe: 30 Minute Caprese Chicken


Panzanella Salad

A serving bowl filled with panzanella salad.
Panzanella Salad. Photo credit: Stetted.

Panzanella salad is a rustic Italian favorite featuring juicy tomatoes, basil, and cubes of crusty bread. It’s ideal for a light lunch or easy summer entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Panzanella Salad

Basil Simple Syrup

A glass jar filled with light yellow oil sits on a white cloth, with fresh green basil leaves placed beside it.
Basil Simple Syrup. Photo credit: Life Currents.

Add fresh flavor to drinks and desserts with this basil simple syrup. It’s an easy way to brighten cocktails, lemonades, ice cream, and cakes.
Get the Recipe: Basil Simple Syrup

Blackberry Jam with Basil

A jar of blackberry jam with basil as seen from overhead, with a knife in the jar.
Blackberry Jam with Basil. Photo credit: Stetted.

This small-batch blackberry jam gets an herbal upgrade with a touch of basil. No pectin or canning is required for fresh flavor in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Blackberry Jam with Basil

Pesto Salad Dressing

A plate of leafy green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, burrata cheese, candied pecans, and green pesto dressing, next to a jar of pesto and seasoning bowls.
Pesto Salad Dressing. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

Only three ingredients stand between you and this flavorful pesto dressing. It’s perfect for tossing with greens, pasta salads, or drizzling over grilled veggies.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Salad Dressing

How to Dry Basil

A jar of dried basil as seen from overhead looking inside.
How to Dry Basil. Photo credit: Stetted.

Preserve your summer basil bounty with these four easy drying methods. You’ll be ready to enjoy garden flavor long after basil season ends.
Get the Recipe: How to Dry Basil

Traeger Grilled Chicken Sandwich

A hand holding a chicken sandwich with lettuce and a slice of tomato visible inside a bun.
Traeger Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Or Whatever You Do.

Grilled chicken and fresh basil come together in a simple sandwich that’s full of flavor. It’s a light, satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Chicken Pesto Pizza

A sliced chicken pesto pizza with some slices removed to a plate.
Chicken Pesto Pizza. Photo credit: Stetted.

This homemade chicken pesto pizza is topped with all your favorite fresh flavors. It’s a vibrant and delicious way to change up pizza night.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pesto Pizza

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A woman in a black shirt smiling in a kitchen.

About Megan

I learned how to cook by exploring seasonal ingredients, and you can too! Meal time shouldn’t be stressful or complicated, and with fresh ingredients and easy methods, I’m here to help you enjoy the time spent in the kitchen. Read more…

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