You’re going to adore this luscious basil sauce! It’s like a super fresh, summer aioli that enlivens sandwiches and snacks. You can prepare this sauce in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients. I whip it up frequently and continue discovering new ways to use it, so I’m showcasing it here today.
It’s not too late to cultivate some basil this summer. If you have an abundance and have already made all the pesto you can handle, give this creamy basil sauce a try next. You’ll find numerous ideas to utilize it below. Let’s make it a basil sauce summer!
Simple Ingredients
This sauce tastes like much more than just its components. It’s enchanting.
Garlic
Garlic (one clove) is mentioned first because we’ll blend it in the food processor before incorporating the other ingredients. Why dirty a garlic press or cutting board if it’s unnecessary?
Fresh basil
Fresh basil is essential here. Utilize the leaves and small stems, but eliminate the thicker stems.
Mayonnaise
I don’t often use mayonnaise, but it creates a wonderfully creamy, slightly tangy foundation for this sauce that’s hard to beat. I prefer the flavor of Duke’s mayonnaise, though there are healthier alternatives made with avocado oil available.
Salt and pepper
Salt amplifies the overall taste. Season it liberally with black pepper for a bit of spice.
Basil Tips
Basil retains its freshness better at room temperature than in the fridge, but it doesn’t last long either way. To achieve a vibrant green sauce, ensure your basil is dry before blending. Gently rinse it under cool water, pat it dry, and then let the basil air dry for a bit.
Uses for Basil Sauce
Here are a few ways I’ve enjoyed this sauce, but surely there are many more. Generally, it pairs well with tomatoes and other summer produce like zucchini. For an extra burst of flavor, incorporate a drizzle of thick balsamic vinegar or balsamic glaze.
– Avocado toast: Brighten your avocado toast with a light drizzle of basil sauce. Tomatoes would complement it beautifully.
– Eggs: Serve it with some crusty toast and fried or scrambled eggs.
– French fries: Oh my! Enjoy this sauce with my crispy potato wedges.
– Pizza: The basil flavor is a perfect complement for pizzas (try it with a classic Margherita). Serve basil sauce for dipping on the side, as you would ranch dressing. I might enjoy it even more.
– Sandwiches and wraps: Spread basil sauce on your bread or tortilla for a burst of fresh, summery flavor. Try it in the modified grilled cheese highlighted above, and the Caprese sandwich featured below.
– Socca and panisse: Basil sauce pairs wonderfully with these chickpea flour-based dishes. Socca is chickpea flatbread, while panisses are chickpea fries.
– Veggie dip: Present it with crunchy sliced vegetables like bell pepper, carrot, celery, and broccoli. Add cheese and crackers for a delightful summer appetizer.
More Fresh Basil Recipes
If your garden is brimming, consider trying one of these basil recipes next:
Please share how your sauce turns out in the comments. I hope it becomes one of your go-to flavor enhancers as well.
Creamy Basil Sauce
This straightforward basil sauce is packed with vibrant basil flavor! Use it instead of ranch dressing on your summer sandwiches and meals. Recipe yields just over 1 cup.
Instructions:
1. Place the garlic in a food processor and blend until it’s finely minced. Add the mayonnaise, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth. Leftovers can be stored for up to 1 week in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes:
Recipe inspired by the basil dip served with French fries at French Market in Kansas City.
Make it by hand: Finely chop the basil, press or mince the garlic, and whisk the ingredients together in a bowl.
Nutrition:
The information provided is an estimate from an online nutrition calculator. It should not replace the advice of a professional nutritionist. See our full nutrition disclosure here.