Lemon basil is a type of basil that has a distinct lemony aroma and flavor. It is a popular herb to grow in home gardens and use for culinary purposes. But what exactly is lemon basil good for? Here is an in-depth look at the many uses and benefits of lemon basil.
Lemon Basil Plant Characteristics
Lemon basil is part of the Ocimum genus in the Lamiaceae (mint) family. Its scientific name is Ocimum basilicum ‘Citriodorum’. It is related to other basil varieties like sweet basil, Thai basil, and holy basil.
The lemon basil plant has light green leaves that are oval or pointed in shape. The leaves have a wrinkled appearance. When crushed or bruised, the leaves give off a strong, sweet lemon scent. Small white flowers may bloom on the plant in summer.
Lemon basil is easy to grow in containers or gardens. It thrives in warm weather and full sun exposure. The plants can grow 12-18 inches tall. Lemon basil has a shorter shelf life than other types of basil after being harvested.
Culinary Uses
The lemony flavor and aroma make lemon basil a versatile culinary herb. Here are some of the main ways it is used in cooking:
- Seasoning for seafood – Excellent with shrimp, fish, scallops
- Flavoring for poultry – Adds brightness to chicken and turkey dishes
- Citrus accent in veggies – Pairs well with zucchini, peas, tomatoes
- Pesto ingredient – Adds unique flavor when substituted for or added to regular basil
- Salad topping – Fresh lemon basil leaves enhance the flavor of green, pasta, or grain salads
- Herbal tea – Can be brewed into a refreshing hot or iced tea
- Scented vinegar – Steep leaves in vinegar to make a flavored essence
- Seasoning blend ingredient – Adds lemon essence to spice rubs and herb mixes
- Replace lemon zest – Use minced lemon basil instead of grated lemon zest
- Cocktail garnish – Attractive and flavorful garnish for drinks and mocktails
The possibilities are endless for incorporating lemon basil into recipes. It pairs especially well with garlic, olive oil, lemon, and seafood. Use it to add bright flavor to otherwise heavy dishes.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Like other basil varieties, lemon basil contains antioxidants and essential oils that provide health benefits. Some of the main nutrients and plant compounds in lemon basil include:
- Vitamin K – Supports bone and heart health
- Vitamin A – Important for immune function and vision
- Calcium – Necessary for strong bones and muscles
- Iron – Helps transport oxygen in the blood
- Magnesium – Needed for energy production and muscle function
- Eugenol – antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects
- Rosmarinic acid – antioxidant that fights free radicals
- Linalool – Anti-anxiety and stress reducing terpene
The nutrients and compounds in lemon basil may provide these health benefits:
- Reduce inflammation – The antioxidants fight inflammation that can lead to chronic diseases.
- Support brain function – Compounds like linalool have neuroprotective effects.
- Lower cholesterol – The essential oils may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.
- Improve mood – The aroma uplifts mood and reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.
- Aid digestion – Eating lemon basil helps relax stomach muscles and improve digestion.
- Antibacterial properties – The essential oils inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi.
More research is still needed on lemon basil specifically. But studies show the main compounds it contains have protective effects on health.
Lemon Basil Nutrition Facts
Here are the nutrition facts for 1 tablespoon (2 grams) of fresh lemon basil:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 1 | 0% |
| Fat | 0 g | 0% |
| Sodium | 0 mg | 0% |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g | 0% |
| Fiber | 0 g | 0% |
| Sugar | 0 g | 0% |
| Calcium | 13 mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.15 mg | 1% |
| Vitamin A | 74 IU | 2% |
| Vitamin K | 3.6 mcg | 3% |
Growing Lemon Basil
Lemon basil is easy to grow in pots or garden beds. Here are some tips for growing lemon basil successfully:
Sun and Soil Requirements
- Full sun – Lemon basil needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Well-draining soil – It thrives in loose, sandy soil that drains easily after watering.
- pH of 6.0-7.5 – Test soil pH and amend with lime if too acidic.
- Temperatures above 70°F – Grow as an annual in areas with cold winters.
- Shelter from wind – Protect plants from strong wind which can damage leaves.
Planting
- Start from seed indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost.
- Transplant outdoors after danger of frost has passed.
- Space plants 12-15 inches apart in beds or containers.
- Bury stem partially or pinch off lower leaves when transplanting.
- Optimal soil temperature for germination is 70°F.
Care
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not saturated.
- Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune plants regularly to encourage new growth.
- Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during growing season.
- Protect plants from snails and slugs which can eat leaves.
- Harvest leaves as needed once plants reach 6 inches tall.
Companion Planting
Good companion plants for lemon basil include:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Chives
- Oregano
- Lavender
- Parsley
- Cilantro
Considerations when planting near lemon basil:
- Avoid planting near rue and sage
- Repels mosquitoes and house flies
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
Container Growing
Steps for growing lemon basil in containers:
- Select a container at least 6 inches deep with drainage holes
- Use a quality potting mix formulated for herbs and vegetables
- Plant seeds or transplants in containers
- Place container in full sun location on patio or balcony
- Water whenever top inch of soil feels dry
- Trim plant to keep it compact and promote bushy growth
- Bring containers indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F
Preserving Lemon Basil
The delicate flavor of lemon basil is best enjoyed fresh. But there are ways to preserve lemon basil for months after harvest season is over. Here are some options:
Drying
One of the easiest ways to preserve lemon basil is air drying. Follow these steps:
- Harvest lemon basil stems just before flowers bloom. Choose ones with robust leaves.
- Wash the stems gently and shake off excess water.
- Bundle several stems together and secure ends with a rubber band or string.
- Hang bundles upside down in a warm, dry, dark place with good air circulation.
- Leave for 1-2 weeks until completely dry and crispy.
- Strip leaves from stems. Discard stems and store leaves in an airtight container.
Freezing
Frozen lemon basil leaves retain more flavor than dried ones. Follow these freezing steps:
- Pick fresh young leaves in the morning after dew dries.
- Wash and dry leaves thoroughly with a salad spinner or cloth.
- Lay leaves flat in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place in freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer leaves to an airtight freezer bag or container.
- Remove desired amount of leaves as needed. Use within 6 months for best quality.
Infused Oil
Infusing lemon basil in oil captures the basil’s essential oils. Follow this process:
- Harvest a large amount of lemon basil leaves, removing stems.
- Wash and dry leaves thoroughly.
- Lightly bruise the leaves by rubbing between fingers to release their oils.
- Place leaves loosely in a clean glass jar, filling it halfway.
- Cover leaves fully with olive oil or oil of choice.
- Store jar in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Strain oil through a cheesecloth-lined sieve into another jar. Compost basil leaves.
- Store infused oil in the fridge and use within 6 months.
Common Questions about Lemon Basil
Does lemon basil actually taste lemony?
Yes, lemon basil has a distinct lemony flavor and smell reminiscent of lemon rind or lemon verbena. The leaves release a lemony fragrance when touched or cooked with. The lemony essence comes from the essential oil citral in the leaves.
Is lemon basil an annual or perennial herb?
Lemon basil is an annual herb. This means the plant germinates, grows, flowers, sets seed, and dies within one growing season. Home gardeners typically grow it as an annual and plant it fresh each year from seed or transplants.
What dishes pair well with lemon basil?
Lemon basil pairs nicely with seafood, poultry, vegetables, Italian dishes, salad dressings, herb butters and dips, infused oils and vinegars, and beverages. It complements garlic, olive oil, citrus, and cheeses like Parmesan and mozzarella.
Should lemon basil be refrigerated?
It’s best not to refrigerate fresh lemon basil. Cold temperatures below 50°F can damage the leaves. Keep fresh cut stems in water at room temperature for a few days. Refrigeration accelerates moisture loss, so lemon basil may keep for just 1-2 days in the fridge.
Can you substitute lemon basil for regular basil?
Yes, lemon basil can substitute for regular sweet basil in many recipes. The lemony flavor pairs especially well with seafood, chicken, vegetables, and Italian dishes. Use the same amount called for of regular basil. For stronger lemon flavor, use half lemon basil and half regular basil.
Conclusion
With its refreshing lemon essence and versatile uses, it’s easy to see why lemon basil is a favorite for home herb gardens and kitchens. The herb’s unique citrus flavor brings brightness to seafood, poultry, vegetables, and more. Lemon basil also provides antioxidants linked to health benefits. Plus, it is simple to grow in containers or garden beds. Preserve bountiful lemon basil harvests by air drying, freezing, or infusing in oil. Experiment with lemon basil to elevate your favorite savory dishes and beverages with a delightful lemony twist.