Basil vs Oregano
A side-by-side guide to substituting Oregano for Basil (or vice versa).
Use 0.5 tbsp of Oregano for every 1 tbsp of Basil.
Side-by-side
Oregano
Conversion: Use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp)
Tags: common
Notes: Oregano is more robust and earthy than basil. Use about half the amount with dried oregano; fresh oregano differs even more from fresh basil.
Read the full guide: Oregano
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Open calculator →When to use Oregano instead of Basil
Oregano is more robust and earthy than basil. Use about half the amount with dried oregano; fresh oregano differs even more from fresh basil. The conversion is use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp).
Common questions
Yes — Oregano is more robust and earthy than basil. Use about half the amount with dried oregano; fresh oregano differs even more from fresh basil. Ratio: Use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp).
Use 50% as much (0.5 tbsp per 1 tbsp). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.
They are similar in most uses, but Oregano is more robust and earthy than basil..
Oregano is one of the options SubSwap lists for Basil. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Basil substitutes.
Looking for more Basil substitutes beyond Oregano?
See all Basil swaps →