What To Make With Cilantro And Basil

What to make with cilantro and basil starts with understanding that these two herbs can be combined in sauces, salads, soups, and marinades that bring fresh flavor to your table.
 
Cilantro and basil are both versatile herbs, and when you pair them, you get a bright, aromatic mix that works in everything from pesto to tacos.
 
If you’ve been wondering what to make with cilantro and basil, you’re in the right place because these two green wonders can go into way more dishes than most people realize.
 
In this post, we’ll look at what to make with cilantro and basil, including sauces, drinks, and main dishes that let both herbs shine.
 
Let’s get into it.
 

What to Make with Cilantro and Basil: Why They Work Together

What to make with cilantro and basil becomes obvious once you understand why these two herbs complement each other so well.
 
Cilantro brings a citrusy, slightly peppery punch, while basil adds a sweet, aromatic warmth.
 
Together, they cover both the bright and the savory notes in a dish, which is why so many cuisines use them in tandem.
 
When you’re figuring out what to make with cilantro and basil, remember that they both love lime, garlic, and olive oil.
 
That trio of ingredients is the backbone of countless recipes that use cilantro and basil together.
 
So what to make with cilantro and basil really comes down to picking a base and letting these herbs do the heavy lifting.
 

1. Cilantro Basil Pesto

One of the best answers to what to make with cilantro and basil is a pesto that swaps out some of the traditional basil for cilantro.
 
Blend cilantro, basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, and olive oil until smooth.
 
The cilantro adds a zesty edge that regular pesto doesn’t have.
 
Toss it with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or drizzle it over grilled chicken.
 
This is easily one of the most flexible things to make with cilantro and basil.
 

2. Cilantro Basil Chimichurri

If you want to know what to make with cilantro and basil that works as a condiment, chimichurri is your answer.
 
Finely chop cilantro and basil, then mix with garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
 
Spoon it over steak, fish, or roasted vegetables.
 
This is a great way to use up a big bunch of both herbs at once.
 

3. Thai-Inspired Cilantro Basil Sauce

What to make with cilantro and basil gets even more exciting when you go Thai.
 
Combine cilantro, basil, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and a little chili for a sauce that packs serious flavor.
 
Use it as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or toss it with noodles.
 
This sauce shows exactly what to make with cilantro and basil when you want something bold.
 

Salads and Salsas Using Cilantro and Basil

Salads and salsas are another great answer to what to make with cilantro and basil because both herbs stay fresh and vibrant when chopped raw.
 

1. Cilantro Basil Salsa Verde

What to make with cilantro and basil in salsa form is a game changer.
 
Blend tomatillos, cilantro, basil, jalapeño, onion, and lime juice for a green salsa that’s tangy and fresh.
 
Serve it with tortilla chips or spoon it over tacos.
 

2. Herb-Packed Summer Salad

Toss together chopped cilantro, basil, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta.
 
Dress it with olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
 
This salad is proof that what to make with cilantro and basil can be light and refreshing.
 

3. Cilantro Basil Mango Salsa

Dice mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and basil.
 
Add lime juice and a pinch of salt.
 
This salsa is amazing on fish tacos or grilled shrimp.
 
It’s one of the tastiest things to make with cilantro and basil when you want a sweet and savory combo.
 

Soups and Noodles with Cilantro and Basil

Soups and noodle dishes are a cozy way to enjoy what to make with cilantro and basil.
 

1. Cilantro Basil Chicken Soup

Simmer chicken broth with garlic, ginger, and chili.
 
Add shredded chicken, noodles, and a big handful of cilantro and basil at the end.
 
The herbs wilt slightly but keep their flavor.
 
This soup is a comforting answer to what to make with cilantro and basil on a cold day.
 

2. Vietnamese-Style Noodle Bowl

Cook rice noodles and top with grilled pork or tofu, cucumber, carrots, and plenty of cilantro and basil.
 
Pour over a dressing of lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar.
 
This is what to make with cilantro and basil when you want something fresh and filling.
 

3. Coconut Curry with Cilantro and Basil

Simmer coconut milk with curry paste, vegetables, and protein of choice.
 
Stir in chopped cilantro and basil right before serving.
 
The herbs brighten the rich curry and make it pop.
 
This is a great example of what to make with cilantro and basil in a warm, spiced dish.
 

Drinks and Marinades with Cilantro and Basil

You might not think of drinks when you ask what to make with cilantro and basil, but both herbs work beautifully in beverages and marinades.
 

1. Cilantro Basil Limeade

Blend fresh lime juice, water, sugar, cilantro, and basil.
 
Strain and serve over ice.
 
This drink is refreshing and unexpected.
 
It’s a fun answer to what to make with cilantro and basil when you want something different.
 

2. Herb-Infused Marinade

Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chopped cilantro, and basil.
 
Use it to marinate chicken, shrimp, or tofu before grilling.
 
The herbs penetrate the protein and add layers of flavor.
 
This marinade is what to make with cilantro and basil when you’re planning a barbecue.
 

3. Cilantro Basil Cocktail or Mocktail

Muddle cilantro and basil with lime and simple syrup.
 
Add rum or sparkling water.
 
Strain over ice and garnish with a sprig of each herb.
 
This is what to make with cilantro and basil when you want a stylish drink.
 

So, What to Make with Cilantro and Basil?

What to make with cilantro and basil is really about using both herbs in sauces, salads, soups, and drinks that let their fresh flavors shine.
 
You can blend them into pesto, chop them into salsa, stir them into soup, or muddle them into a drink.
 
The options for what to make with cilantro and basil are nearly endless, and most of them take less than thirty minutes.
 
So grab a bunch of each and start experimenting with what to make with cilantro and basil in your own kitchen.