Herbs & Spices

Best Substitutes for Fresh Basil

Dried basil works in cooked dishes; fresh oregano or spinach can stand in for pesto and garnishes.

Best overall swap

Dried basil

1 tsp dried per 1 tbsp fresh

Fine for sauces and soups where the basil cooks down; less vibrant for garnishing.

All Substitutes for Fresh Basil

Dried basil

1 tsp dried per 1 tbsp fresh

Fine for sauces and soups where the basil cooks down; less vibrant for garnishing.

pantry-staple

Fresh oregano

1:1

A different but complementary herbal note, good in Italian dishes.

Baby spinach + a little mint (for pesto)

Half spinach, half mint, by volume

A green, herbaceous base for pesto when basil isn’t available.

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