Basil substitutes
Basil substitutes — 3 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Oregano
Same amount as the basil
Similar herb with different flavor.
The best substitutes for basil are oregano, thyme, or mint, depending on the use.
Basil's only job is aroma — the sweet, faintly aniseed note that makes a dish taste Italian — so swapping it changes what the food tastes of and nothing about how it cooks; in a simmered sauce another Mediterranean herb passes easily, but in pesto or on a Caprese, where basil is the whole flavour, nothing else passes.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- cooking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
- Jobs
- Aroma & flavor identityprimary
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of basil | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Oreganocooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Thymecooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Mintcooking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Oregano
different taste, similar texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, pesto
Different flavor, similar earthiness - more bitter.
Thyme
different taste, similar texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Covers
- Aroma & flavor identity
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, pesto
Different flavor, similar earthiness - more floral.
Mint
different taste, similar texture
Similar herb with different flavor.
- Misses
- Aroma & flavor identity — not covered
- Best for
- cooking, seasoning, marinades, pesto
Different flavor, similar earthiness - more cooling.
Questions
3 questionsCan I use oregano instead of basil?
Yes, oregano is a good substitute for basil, but it has a more bitter flavor and is less sweet.
What's the difference between basil and oregano?
Basil has a sweet, peppery flavor, while oregano is more bitter and has a stronger, more pungent flavor.
Can I use basil in pesto?
Yes, basil is commonly used in pesto, especially in traditional Italian pesto.
Tips for substituting basil
4 tips- Basil has a sweet, peppery flavor that's good for Italian cooking
- It's commonly used in pesto, pasta, and pizza
- Basil is best added at the end of cooking to preserve its flavor
- It pairs well with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil