Mint adds a fresh, cooling burst of flavor that’s instantly recognizable in both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re whipping up a mojito, tossing together a tabbouleh, or finishing off a lamb dish, mint often plays a starring role. But what happens when you’re out of it?
The good news is, there are several herbs and ingredients that can step in as a mint substitute—some with similar coolness, others with complementary herbal notes.
From basil to parsley, we’ll cover the best ways to replace mint without losing flavor or balance in your dish.
Table of Contents
Quick Answer: Best Mint Substitutes
Depending on your recipe, some of the best mint alternatives include:
- Basil – for fresh mint in Mediterranean or sweet dishes
- Parsley – for savory recipes and salads
- Cilantro – in spicy or tangy dishes like salsa or chutney
- Tarragon – for a licorice-like twist
- Peppermint extract – for mint flavor in desserts and drinks
Let’s break down when and how to use each of these effectively.
Best Fresh Mint Substitutes
1. Basil
Best for: Salads, desserts, pesto, drinks
- Flavor profile: Sweet, slightly peppery, aromatic
- Use the same amount as mint in most recipes
Basil offers a fresh, herbal flavor and works especially well in fruity drinks, pasta, or as a mint replacement in a caprese salad or watermelon-feta combo.
2. Parsley
Best for: Savory dishes, tabbouleh, meat rubs
- Flavor profile: Clean, grassy, mild
- Use slightly more than you would mint, as it’s milder
While it doesn’t have the same coolness, parsley adds brightness and texture, especially in dishes like tabbouleh, falafel, or meat marinades.
3. Cilantro (Coriander Leaves)
Best for: Salsas, chutneys, spicy dishes
- Flavor profile: Citrusy, bold, slightly peppery
- Use the same amount, or less if you’re not a fan of its strong taste
Cilantro doesn’t taste like mint but offers a similar level of freshness in spicy or tangy dishes like Indian chutneys, Thai salads, or Mexican salsas.
4. Tarragon
Best for: French dishes, chicken, fish, salad dressings
- Flavor profile: Sweet, licorice-like, subtle mint undertones
- Use sparingly—start with half the amount
Tarragon brings an elegant twist to dishes and can provide the sweet-cool essence that mimics mint in certain recipes.
5. Lemon Balm
Best for: Teas, desserts, cold drinks
- Flavor profile: Mild lemon-mint hybrid
- Use 1:1 as a substitute
Lemon balm is part of the mint family and offers a refreshing, slightly citrusy taste. It’s excellent in cold infusions, herbal teas, or dessert toppings.
Best Dried Mint Substitutes
When replacing dried mint, keep in mind that the flavor is more concentrated than fresh herbs. Here are some options:
1. Dried Basil
- Flavor profile: Warm, slightly sweet, mildly peppery
- Substitute ratio: 1:1
- Works in spice rubs, soups, and Middle Eastern dishes
2. Dried Oregano
- Flavor profile: Strong, earthy, slightly bitter
- Substitute ratio: Use ½ the amount
- Good for Greek or Turkish-style dishes, marinades, and stews
3. Dried Tarragon
- Flavor profile: Sweet, mild licorice
- Substitute ratio: 1:1
- Best in sauces, dressings, or egg-based recipes
Mint Substitute by Dish Type
| Dish Type | Best Substitutes | Why It Works |
| Tabbouleh or salad | Parsley, cilantro | Bright and herbaceous |
| Mojito or cocktails | Basil, lemon balm | Refreshing and sweet |
| Chutneys and sauces | Cilantro, basil | Punchy and flavorful |
| Teas or hot drinks | Lemon balm, peppermint extract | Soothing and aromatic |
| Lamb or grilled meats | Tarragon, oregano | Adds depth and herbal complexity |
| Desserts and sweets | Basil, peppermint extract | Complements fruit, chocolate, and cream |
Using Peppermint or Mint Extract
If you’re baking or making drinks and only need mint flavor, a small amount of mint or peppermint extract can go a long way.
- Substitute ratio:
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint = ⅛ tsp mint extract
- 1 teaspoon dried mint = 1–2 drops of extract
Use cautiously—it’s very concentrated.
Note: Peppermint extract is stronger and more candy-like than spearmint, which is typically closer to fresh culinary mint.
What About Spearmint vs. Peppermint?
They’re both part of the mint family but peppermint is more intense and menthol-heavy, while spearmint is sweeter and milder—closer to what you find in fresh recipes.
If your recipe specifically calls for mint leaves, it’s usually referring to spearmint.
FAQs About Mint Substitutes
1. Can I use basil instead of mint in mojitos?
Yes! It gives a different flavor but still offers a refreshing herbal note. Try a basil-lime mojito variation.
2. Can I skip mint in tabbouleh?
You can. Replace with extra parsley and a bit of lemon zest for added freshness.
3. What’s the best dried herb to replace dried mint?
Dried basil or dried tarragon works well depending on the dish.
4. Can I use mint tea bags instead of fresh mint?
Yes, in a pinch. Steep the tea and use the liquid for flavor in drinks or sauces, or open the bag and use the dried leaves if needed.
5. What herb has the closest taste to mint?
Lemon balm and tarragon come closest, especially when used fresh.
Running out of mint doesn’t mean your recipe is ruined. Whether you’re cooking, baking, or mixing drinks, there’s always a mint substitute that can mimic the freshness, aroma, or flavor impact of this versatile herb.
From basil and parsley to lemon balm and tarragon, you’ve got options—so feel free to get creative in the kitchen.
