Oregano vs Basil

A side-by-side guide to substituting Basil for Oregano (or vice versa).

Quick answer

Use 3 tsp of Basil for every 1 tsp of Oregano.

Side-by-side

Oregano

Base unit: tsp

Read the full guide: Oregano

Basil

Conversion: Use 3× as much (3 tsp per 1 tsp)

Tags: vegandairy-freegluten-free

Notes: Fresh basil is much bulkier and less concentrated than dried oregano. Use 3 tbsp fresh per 1 tsp dried oregano; add late in cooking.

Read the full guide: Basil

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When to use Basil instead of Oregano

Fresh basil is much bulkier and less concentrated than dried oregano. Use 3 tbsp fresh per 1 tsp dried oregano; add late in cooking. The conversion is use 3× as much (3 tsp per 1 tsp).

Common questions

Can I substitute Basil for Oregano?

Yes — Fresh basil is much bulkier and less concentrated than dried oregano. Use 3 tbsp fresh per 1 tsp dried oregano; add late in cooking. Ratio: Use 3× as much (3 tsp per 1 tsp).

What's the conversion ratio for Oregano to Basil?

Use 3× as much (3 tsp per 1 tsp). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.

Are Oregano and Basil interchangeable?

They are similar in most uses, but Fresh basil is much bulkier and less concentrated than dried oregano..

Is Basil a better substitute than other options for Oregano?

Basil is one of the options SubSwap lists for Oregano. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Oregano substitutes.

Looking for more Oregano substitutes beyond Basil?

See all Oregano swaps →

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