15 Fresh Recipes Featuring Basil—That Don't Include Tomatoes!

The late summer acidity and sweetness of plums and blackberries fruit combine with basil's oils in a mocktail that is deliciously-thirst quenching. Muddle the ripe fruit with basil and top with lemon soda.

Forget a sad bowl of boring leaves. In this vital summer side dish basil leaves are mixed with assertive herbs like tarragon and mint in a mouth-watering salad dressed with sour cherries quick-pickled in sherry vinegar.

When you fantasize about Cobb salad, this recipe, featuring crisp bacon, luscious avocado, freshly-shucked corn and half a cup of basil will make those dreams come true. And keep hunger at bay all day.

Basil has a remarkable affinity for stone fruit, and perfect summer peaches are a particularly fine pairing. Transform basil leaves into aromatic confections by dipping them in egg white and sugar to grace a no-bake chiffon pie.

Pesto is more than pasta. In a hearty soup, use the classic parmesan and basil paste to transform turkey meatballs into mouthfuls of comforting goodness.

Cupfuls of raw basil and cilantro are whizzed-up with garlic, chile, and fish sauce to create a pungently flavorful counterpart to soothing rice and quick-cooked shrimp. Never mind supplements! Your immune system will thank you for this bowlful.

Holy basil and chiles are best friends. This simple stir fry relies on umami-rich soy and oyster sauce to coat caramelized chicken before wilted basil envelops the quick sauce with its iconic fragrance.

Summer's best produce, led by red peppers, creates a gorgeous, basil-brightened red sauce to accompany seared steak. Confession: Yes, we added tomatoes.

When you need something fast, seasonal, and memorably good, grill summer peaches and accompany them with thinly sliced prosciutto and fresh basil leaves.

You will not miss the traditional bulgur in this gluten-free tabbouleh based on toasted quinoa. The aromatic trinity of basil, mint, and parsley paired with astringent lemon make the transition nourishingly seamless.

Lemon lovers, this is for you. The zest, segments and juice of lemon make a familiar dish of succulent asparagus transcendent. A creamy egg yolk dressing, crisp almonds, and freshly sliced basil leaves add balance, crunch, and aroma.

When you have a bunch of basil, add it at the end to this a classic noodle stir fry. Their last-minute addition preserve their essential oils and perfumes the whole dish.

Farmers' market corn and just-picked basil create an intensely seasonal, unusual, and unforgettably good ice cream.