Why Is Basil Used in Italian Food? Flavor and Tradition
Basil is used in Italian food because its sweet, floral, lightly peppery aroma balances acidic tomatoes, rich olive oil, salty cheese, and savory garlic without overwhelming them. Italian cooks also value basil’s seasonal freshness, especially in Liguria, Campania, and Sicily, where local varieties became tied to pesto, tomato sauces, pizza, salads, and summer cooking. Key […]