Mexican basil is a fragrant, slightly spicy herb that elevates a wide variety of dishes.
From savory soups and stews to flavorful stir-fries and sauces, this herb adds unique aroma and depth to your meals.
These 15 Mexican basil recipes are perfect for experimenting with fresh, vibrant flavors in your kitchen.
Whether you’re making Mexican, Asian, or fusion dishes, these recipes highlight the herb’s versatility.
With simple ingredients and easy techniques, you can transform everyday meals into aromatic, flavorful dishes using Mexican basil.
Discover how this herb can become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
15 Delicious Mexican Basil Recipes to Elevate Your Meals
With these 15 Mexican basil recipes, you can enjoy bold, aromatic flavors in a variety of meals.
From main dishes to soups, salads, and sauces, each recipe showcases the herb’s unique taste.
Mexican basil brings freshness, depth, and a subtle kick to your cooking, making even simple dishes extraordinary.
These recipes are easy to prepare and versatile enough for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.
Incorporating Mexican basil into your dishes elevates flavor without extra effort.
Every meal becomes vibrant, aromatic, and delicious with this versatile herb.
Mexican Basil Pesto Pasta
This vibrant pasta features a fresh Mexican basil pesto, offering bold flavor and a slightly spicy aroma.
The sauce blends Mexican basil, garlic, nuts, and olive oil, coating al dente pasta beautifully.
It’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a vegetarian Saturday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh Mexican basil leaves
- 1/2 cup nuts (pine nuts or almonds)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz pasta of choice
Instructions:
- Blend Mexican basil, nuts, garlic, and Parmesan in a food processor.
- Slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook pasta according to package directions and drain.
- Toss pasta with pesto and serve warm.
This Mexican basil pesto pasta is fresh, aromatic, and satisfying.
It’s perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
The pesto highlights the herb’s unique aroma.
Every bite is rich, vibrant, and delicious.
Mexican Basil Chicken Stir-Fry
This stir-fry combines tender chicken with vegetables and aromatic Mexican basil.
The herb adds a slightly spicy, fragrant flavor to the dish, elevating simple stir-fry ingredients.
It’s low-carb, quick to prepare, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh Mexican basil leaves
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sauté garlic 1 minute, then add chicken and cook until browned.
- Add vegetables and stir-fry 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Stir in soy sauce and remove from heat.
- Toss in Mexican basil before serving.
This Mexican basil chicken stir-fry is fragrant, savory, and flavorful.
It’s perfect for a healthy, low-carb meal.
The basil adds a fresh, aromatic kick.
Every bite is tender, vibrant, and satisfying.
Spicy Mexican Basil Shrimp
This shrimp dish features a fragrant, slightly spicy Mexican basil sauce.
The shrimp are juicy and flavorful, enhanced by garlic, chili, and fresh basil.
It’s quick, keto-friendly, and perfect for a Saturday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/2 cup fresh Mexican basil leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and chili flakes 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink.
- Remove from heat, stir in lime juice and Mexican basil.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
This spicy Mexican basil shrimp is aromatic, zesty, and tender.
It’s perfect for a low-carb, flavorful dinner.
The basil enhances the shrimp with fresh, herbaceous notes.
Every bite is savory, fragrant, and satisfying.
Mexican Basil Caprese Salad
This Caprese salad uses Mexican basil instead of traditional sweet basil for a bold twist.
Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic create a refreshing, colorful dish.
It’s perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or light meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh Mexican basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Arrange tomatoes and mozzarella slices on a plate.
- Tuck Mexican basil leaves between slices.
- Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately.
This Mexican basil Caprese salad is fresh, vibrant, and aromatic.
It’s perfect for a light, low-carb appetizer or side.
The basil adds a unique, slightly spicy flavor.
Every bite is juicy, refreshing, and satisfying.
Mexican Basil Pesto Chicken Bake
This baked chicken dish features a flavorful Mexican basil pesto topping.
The pesto adds a fresh, aromatic, and slightly spicy taste, elevating tender baked chicken.
It’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and perfect for a hearty Saturday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Mexican basil pesto
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread Mexican basil pesto over the top of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle mozzarella over the pesto.
- Bake 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
This Mexican basil pesto chicken bake is aromatic, cheesy, and savory.
It’s perfect for a low-carb Saturday dinner.
The pesto adds vibrant flavor to tender chicken.
Every bite is flavorful, juicy, and satisfying
Mexican Basil Beef Stir-Fry
This beef stir-fry features tender strips of beef tossed with vegetables and fragrant Mexican basil.
The herb adds a slightly spicy, aromatic kick to the savory beef and sauce.
It’s quick, low-carb, and perfect for a flavorful Saturday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced thin
- 2 cups bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh Mexican basil leaves
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sauté garlic 1 minute, then add beef; cook until browned.
- Add vegetables and stir-fry 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Stir in soy sauce and remove from heat.
- Toss in Mexican basil before serving.
This Mexican basil beef stir-fry is savory, aromatic, and satisfying.
It’s perfect for a low-carb, protein-packed Saturday dinner.
The basil adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
Every bite is tender, vibrant, and flavorful.
Mexican Basil Garlic Butter Salmon
This salmon recipe is rich, tender, and enhanced with garlic butter and fresh Mexican basil.
The herb adds a fragrant, slightly spicy aroma to the flaky, perfectly baked fish.
It’s quick, healthy, and ideal for a keto-friendly Saturday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped Mexican basil leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix butter, garlic, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Brush mixture over salmon fillets.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until salmon is cooked through.
- Serve immediately.
This Mexican basil garlic butter salmon is aromatic, savory, and tender.
It’s perfect for a low-carb Saturday dinner.
The basil and garlic enhance the natural flavor of the salmon.
Every bite is rich, flavorful, and satisfying.
Mexican Basil Eggplant Stir-Fry
This stir-fry combines tender eggplant with garlic, soy sauce, and fresh Mexican basil.
It’s a low-carb, vegetarian-friendly dish that’s fragrant, flavorful, and perfect for a Saturday dinner.
The eggplant absorbs the savory sauce while the basil adds a fresh, aromatic kick.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants, cubed
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1/2 cup fresh Mexican basil leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic 1 minute, then add eggplant; cook 5–6 minutes until tender.
- Stir in soy sauce and cook 2–3 minutes more.
- Remove from heat and toss in Mexican basil.
- Serve hot.
This Mexican basil eggplant stir-fry is fragrant, savory, and satisfying.
It’s perfect as a low-carb vegetarian dinner.
The basil adds brightness and depth to the tender eggplant.
Every bite is flavorful, aromatic, and delicious.
Mexican Basil Tomato Soup
This tomato soup is vibrant, flavorful, and enhanced with fresh Mexican basil.
The herb adds a slightly spicy, aromatic note to the creamy, comforting soup.
It’s low-carb, simple, and perfect for a cozy Saturday meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup fresh Mexican basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic 2–3 minutes until translucent.
- Add tomatoes and cook 5 minutes until softened.
- Pour in broth and simmer 10 minutes.
- Blend soup until smooth and stir in Mexican basil before serving.
This Mexican basil tomato soup is creamy, aromatic, and comforting.
It’s perfect for a low-carb Saturday dinner or lunch.
The basil adds depth and a fragrant touch to the tomato flavor.
Every spoonful is fresh, vibrant, and satisfying.
Mexican Basil Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
This dish features zucchini noodles tossed in a fresh Mexican basil pesto for a low-carb, flavorful meal.
It’s quick, light, and perfect for a keto-friendly Saturday lunch or dinner.
The basil pesto is aromatic, slightly spicy, and coats each noodle perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 1/2 cup Mexican basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add zucchini noodles and sauté 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Remove from heat and toss noodles with Mexican basil pesto.
- Sprinkle Parmesan and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately.
This Mexican basil zucchini noodle dish is fresh, light, and flavorful.
It’s perfect for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal.
The pesto highlights the aromatic, slightly spicy flavor of the basil.
Every bite is vibrant, satisfying, and delicious.
Mexican Basil Grilled Chicken
This grilled chicken is marinated with fresh Mexican basil, garlic, and olive oil for a fragrant, savory flavor.
It’s perfect for a low-carb Saturday dinner or weekend barbecue.
The herb infuses the chicken with an aromatic, slightly spicy taste while keeping it juicy and tender.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh Mexican basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Mix olive oil, garlic, Mexican basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat chicken breasts with marinade and refrigerate 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Serve hot.
This Mexican basil grilled chicken is aromatic, tender, and flavorful.
It’s perfect for a low-carb weekend dinner.
The basil and garlic create a vibrant, fragrant dish.
Every bite is juicy, savory, and satisfying.
Mexican Basil Shrimp Tacos (Lettuce Wraps)
These shrimp tacos use fresh Mexican basil for a fragrant, slightly spicy twist.
They’re low-carb by using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas, perfect for a keto-friendly Saturday dinner.
The shrimp are tender, flavorful, and paired with crisp vegetables and a tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 lettuce leaves
- 1/4 cup fresh Mexican basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Toss shrimp with chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; cook 2–3 minutes per side.
- Place shrimp in lettuce leaves and top with tomatoes and Mexican basil.
- Serve immediately.
These Mexican basil shrimp tacos are fresh, aromatic, and savory.
They’re perfect for a low-carb, flavorful meal.
The basil adds vibrant, slightly spicy notes to each bite.
Every bite is juicy, fresh, and satisfying.
Mexican Basil Egg Roll in a Bowl
This deconstructed egg roll combines ground meat, cabbage, and fresh Mexican basil for a low-carb twist.
It’s quick, savory, and perfect for a Saturday dinner packed with flavor.
The basil adds a fragrant, slightly spicy aroma that elevates this keto-friendly dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork or chicken
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped Mexican basil
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic 1 minute, then add ground meat; cook until browned.
- Add cabbage and carrots; stir-fry 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Stir in soy sauce and remove from heat.
- Toss in Mexican basil before serving.
This Mexican basil egg roll in a bowl is savory, aromatic, and satisfying.
It’s perfect for a low-carb, flavorful dinner.
The basil brings brightness and depth to the dish.
Every bite is tender, fresh, and delicious.
Mexican Basil Zoodle Salad
This zucchini noodle salad uses fresh Mexican basil for a vibrant, aromatic flavor.
It’s light, refreshing, and perfect as a low-carb side or main course.
The basil enhances the crisp vegetables with a slightly spicy, fragrant touch.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, spiralized
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh Mexican basil, chopped
Instructions:
- Toss zucchini noodles, tomatoes, and red onion in a bowl.
- Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; pour over vegetables.
- Add chopped Mexican basil and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill 10–15 minutes.
This Mexican basil zoodle salad is fresh, light, and aromatic.
It’s perfect as a low-carb side or main dish.
The basil adds a fragrant, slightly spicy note.
Every bite is crisp, vibrant, and satisfying.
Mexican Basil Cauliflower Rice
This cauliflower rice is sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and fresh Mexican basil for a low-carb, flavorful side dish.
It’s quick, aromatic, and perfect for pairing with grilled meats or seafood.
The basil adds a subtle, slightly spicy flavor that elevates the mild cauliflower.
Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower, riced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped Mexican basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic 1 minute, then add cauliflower rice.
- Cook 5–7 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper and stir in Mexican basil.
- Serve immediately.
This Mexican basil cauliflower rice is fragrant, savory, and satisfying.
It’s perfect for a low-carb side dish.
The basil elevates the flavor and aroma of the cauliflower.
Every bite is light, aromatic, and delicious.
