General information, not medical advice. Talk to your pediatrician before starting solids or allergens.

Basil for babies

When and how to serve basil at every stage of starting solids.

Introduce from: 6–9 months
Safety notes: No choking or allergen flag

How to prepare basil by age

6–9 months
Finely chop or tear fresh basil and stir small amounts into sauces, mashed vegetables or pasta, or use a little dried basil (salt-free) in cooking. Chop leaves finely — large whole leaves can stick to the roof of the mouth.
9–12 months
Finely chopped in homemade tomato sauce, ratatouille, eggs and pasta.
12 months+
Fresh or dried in everyday cooking; torn leaves on pasta and salads.

Nutrition highlights

Antioxidants

Serving ideas

Stirred into homemade tomato sauce
In ratatouille
Blended with olive oil and peas into a green pasta sauce

Prepare these as described above for your baby’s age.

Choosing and storing

Storage: Keep dried in an airtight jar in a cool, dark cupboard. Fresh: wrap in a damp paper towel and refrigerate for up to a week.

Recipes with basil

Sources

This guide is based on published guidance from:

More herbs & spices

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