Basil LuvMyRecipe June 17, 2020 June 17, 2020 Herbs Sweet basil has an intricate sweet, spicy aroma with hints of clove and anise. It has a warm, peppery flavor with hidden mint and anise tones. Purple (opal) basil, bush basil, lettuce basil, and ‘Ruffles’ basils have similar flavors. Author: LuvMyRecipe