The basil plants in my garden are getting ready to explode –- in a few short weeks I’ll have bunches and bunches on my hands. Here are 5 different ways to use this fresh and flavorful herb.

Basil and seafood are an unbeatable combination. You don’t want strong herbs to overpower the delicate flavor of shrimp. Sweet basil has just enough punch to give this dish some extra pizzazz!

Tear up basil leaves for an easy (and virtually calorie-free) pizza topping. It gets dark and crispy in the oven – yum! Add some more when the pizza comes out of the oven for a pop of color.

Get extra mileage out of fresh basil by infusing oil with bright and “herb-y” flavor. Drizzle over grilled chicken, fish, veggies or pasta. Read our tips for making your own flavored oils.

This 3–ingredient recipe is a creative alternative to plain old crackers. Basil and lemon freshen up the salty bite of Parmesan cheese.

Recipe: Parmesan, Basil and Lemon Wafers (pictured)

Make sweet basil even sweeter with a hint of sugar and squeeze of fresh lime. This recipe will be a huge hit at your next summer dinner party.

Dana Angelo White, MS, RD, ATC, is a registered dietitian, certified athletic trainer and owner of Dana White Nutrition, Inc., which specializes in culinary and sports nutrition. See Dana's full bio »

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