Substitutes for Basil

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Sweet, aromatic herb central to Italian and Thai cooking. Used fresh or dried in sauces, salads, and pesto.

Can't find Basil in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 4 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Oregano 1:1 for dried, use 1/2 for fresh pasta sauces, pizza, soups
Vegan Gluten-Free
Spinach or Arugula 1:1 replacement (fresh only) pesto, salads, garnish
Vegan Gluten-Free
Thai Basil 1:1 replacement Thai dishes, pasta, stir-fries
Vegan Gluten-Free
Tarragon 1/2 tsp per 1 tsp basil sauces, dressings, chicken dishes
Vegan Gluten-Free

How to Use

More pungent and earthy. Best in cooked dishes, not fresh salads.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Basil?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Oregano is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 1:1 for dried, use 1/2 for fresh.
What's a vegan substitute for Basil?
Oregano is an excellent vegan option. Use 1:1 for dried, use 1/2 for fresh.
Can I use any of these substitutes interchangeably?
Most substitutes work well in their recommended use cases, but they may produce slightly different results. The notes above explain the differences and best practices.
Will the taste be affected?
Some substitutes may subtly change the flavor profile of your dish, but they'll work great in the recommended use cases. Start with the suggested ratio and adjust to your taste.