Ground Basil
Ocimum basilicumClinical Encyclopedia
Ground basil is a fragrant herb commonly used in cooking, known for its aromatic leaves and potential health benefits. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a valuable addition to various dishes.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Ground basil can be added to sauces, soups, and marinades. It is best to add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its flavor.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose ground basil that is aromatic and has a vibrant color. Avoid any that appear dull or have an off smell.
Store in a cool, dark place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds
Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.
Eugenol has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Linalool exhibits calming effects and may reduce anxiety.
"Basil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is considered a sacred herb in some cultures."
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Ground Basil Quinoa Salad
A refreshing and nutritious salad featuring quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty ground basil dressing.
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons ground basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together ground basil, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss to combine, and serve chilled.
Ground Basil and Spinach Pesto
A vibrant twist on traditional pesto using ground basil and fresh spinach, perfect for pasta or as a spread.
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons ground basil
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a food processor, combine spinach, walnuts, Parmesan, ground basil, garlic, and salt.
- 2. Blend while slowly adding olive oil until smooth.
- 3. Serve over whole-grain pasta or as a spread on whole-grain bread.
Ground Basil Chicken Skewers
Grilled chicken skewers marinated with ground basil and spices, offering a flavorful and healthy protein option.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons ground basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a bowl, mix chicken cubes with ground basil, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Skewer the marinated chicken onto skewers and let marinate for 30 minutes.
- 3. Grill the skewers over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Ground Basil Avocado Toast
A nutritious breakfast option featuring creamy avocado spread with a hint of ground basil on whole-grain toast.
- 2 slices whole-grain bread
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 teaspoon ground basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cherry tomatoes for garnish
- 1. Toast the whole-grain bread slices until golden brown.
- 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado and mix in ground basil, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toasted bread and top with halved cherry tomatoes.
Ground Basil Zucchini Noodles
A low-carb alternative to pasta, these zucchini noodles are tossed with a flavorful ground basil sauce.
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons ground basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- 2. Add spiralized zucchini and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
- 3. Stir in cherry tomatoes, ground basil, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes before serving.
Ground Basil Hummus
A healthy twist on classic hummus, infused with ground basil for an aromatic flavor profile.
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons ground basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, ground basil, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
- 2. Blend until smooth, adding water if necessary to reach desired consistency.
- 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or whole-grain pita chips.
Ground Basil and Tomato Soup
A comforting and healthy tomato soup enriched with the aromatic flavor of ground basil.
- 4 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ground basil
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- 2. Add diced tomatoes, ground basil, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper, bringing to a boil.
- 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, then blend until smooth and serve hot.
Ground Basil Greek Yogurt Dip
A creamy and healthy dip made with Greek yogurt and ground basil, perfect for snacking.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ground basil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, ground basil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- 2. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- 3. Serve with fresh veggies or whole-grain crackers.
Ground Basil Roasted Vegetables
A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with ground basil, making for a colorful and nutritious side dish.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
- 2 tablespoons ground basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2. In a bowl, toss mixed vegetables with olive oil, ground basil, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
Ground Basil Energy Balls
Nutritious energy balls made with oats, nuts, and a hint of ground basil for a unique flavor.
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons ground basil
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1. In a bowl, mix rolled oats, almond butter, honey, ground basil, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips until combined.
- 2. Form the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
- 3. Enjoy as a healthy snack or post-workout treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the health benefits of ground basil?
Ground basil is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
How should I store ground basil?
Store ground basil in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain its flavor.
Can ground basil be used in teas?
Yes, ground basil can be used to make herbal teas, providing a soothing effect.
Is ground basil safe during pregnancy?
In culinary amounts, ground basil is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but consult a healthcare provider for higher doses.
How does ground basil compare to fresh basil?
Ground basil has a more concentrated flavor than fresh basil, so use less when substituting.
Can ground basil help with digestion?
Yes, ground basil may aid digestion and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort.
What dishes can I use ground basil in?
Ground basil is versatile and can be used in pasta sauces, soups, and marinades.
Does ground basil have any side effects?
In normal culinary amounts, ground basil is safe; however, excessive consumption may lead to digestive upset.