Mint leaves substitutes
Mint leaves substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Basil
Same amount as the mint leaves
Sweet, aromatic herb with different flavor profile.
The best substitutes for mint leaves are basil, cilantro, or parsley, depending on the use.
- The tweak —
- Use fresh leaves directly in recipes. Can be torn or chopped.
- Best for —
- garnishes
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of mint leaves |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Basilgarnishes | Same amount |
| 2 | Cilantrogarnishes | Same amount |
| 3 | Parsleygarnishes | Same amount |
| 4 | Dillgarnishes | Same amount |
| 5 | Tarragongarnishes | Same amount |
| 6 | Chervilgarnishes | Same amount |
Basil
Sweet and aromatic, different from mint
Sweet, aromatic herb with different flavor profile.
- Best for
- garnishes, sauces, marinades, salads, Italian cuisine
- Texture
- Similar soft leaf texture
- Prep
- Use fresh leaves directly in recipes. Can be torn or chopped.
Sweet and aromatic, different from mint but good for garnishing.
Cilantro
Bright and citrusy, different from mint
Fresh herb with bright, citrusy flavor.
- Best for
- garnishes, sauces, marinades, salads, Mexican cuisine
- Texture
- Similar soft leaf texture
- Prep
- Use fresh leaves directly in recipes. Can be chopped or torn.
Bright and citrusy, different from mint but good for garnishing.
Parsley
Mild and clean, different from mint
Fresh herb with mild, clean flavor.
- Best for
- garnishes, sauces, marinades, salads, general cooking
- Texture
- Similar soft leaf texture
- Prep
- Use fresh leaves directly in recipes. Can be chopped or torn.
Mild and clean, different from mint but good for garnishing.
Dill
Tangy and anise-like, different from mint
Fresh herb with tangy, anise-like flavor.
- Best for
- garnishes, sauces, marinades, salads, fish dishes
- Texture
- Similar soft leaf texture
- Prep
- Use fresh leaves directly in recipes. Can be chopped or torn.
Tangy and anise-like, different from mint but good for garnishing.
Tarragon
Licorice-like, different from mint
Fresh herb with licorice-like flavor.
- Best for
- garnishes, sauces, marinades, salads, French cuisine
- Texture
- Similar soft leaf texture
- Prep
- Use fresh leaves directly in recipes. Can be chopped or torn.
Licorice-like, different from mint but good for garnishing.
Chervil
Delicate and anise-like, different from mint
Fresh herb with delicate, anise-like flavor.
- Best for
- garnishes, sauces, marinades, salads, French cuisine
- Texture
- Similar soft leaf texture
- Prep
- Use fresh leaves directly in recipes. Can be chopped or torn.
Delicate and anise-like, different from mint but good for garnishing.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use basil instead of mint leaves?
Yes, basil is a good substitute for mint leaves. It has a different flavor but similar texture and can be used in most recipes, especially for garnishing.
What's the difference between mint leaves and basil?
Mint leaves have a cool, refreshing flavor, while basil has a sweet, aromatic flavor. Both are fresh herbs but have different taste profiles and uses.
Can I use cilantro instead of mint leaves?
Yes, cilantro can work as a substitute, though it has a different flavor. It provides similar freshness and can be used in most recipes, especially for garnishing.
Why are mint leaves so popular in cooking?
Mint leaves are popular because they add cool, refreshing flavor and are versatile in many different types of cuisine and dishes. They're also great for garnishing and adding visual appeal.
Tips for substituting mint leaves
6 tips- Mint leaves add cool, refreshing flavor to dishes
- They're good for garnishing and adding freshness
- Pair well with lemon, cucumber, and lamb
- Great for Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines
- Can be used to make teas and cocktails
- Store in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels