What To Do With Basil At The End Of The Season: Creative Uses For Your Abundant Herb Harvest

When it comes to managing your basil plants at the end of the growing season, there’s a simple and practical way to preserve their fresh flavor for later use. Start by harvesting the basil leaves, giving them a thorough wash, and allowing them to air-dry. Once they’re dry, you can slice the tender leaves into thin ribbons. To store these basil ribbons, you can follow these steps:

1. Fill the compartments of an ice cube tray with the sliced basil leaves.
2. Pour enough olive oil into each compartment to completely cover the basil.
3. Place the ice cube tray in the freezer and allow the oil to solidify, turning the basil into convenient cubes.
4. Once the cubes are frozen, remove them from the tray and transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage.

By following these steps, you can enjoy the vibrant taste of basil in your cooking throughout the year, even after the growing season has ended. This method not only preserves the flavor but also makes it easy to add basil to your dishes when needed.

Wondering how to make the most of your surplus basil leaves? There are several delightful options to explore:

1. Dipping Oil Blend: To create a flavorful dipping oil, finely chop your excess basil leaves and combine them with a medley of other aromatic herbs like thyme, oregano, and minced garlic. Stir this herb mixture into extra virgin olive oil for a savory dip that’s perfect for crusty bread.

2. Pizza Topping: Elevate your homemade pizzas by adding torn basil leaves as a topping. The fresh and fragrant basil will infuse your pizza with a burst of delightful flavor.

3. Caprese Salad: Embrace the essence of summer by preparing a classic Caprese salad. Layer slices of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and your extra basil leaves. Drizzle the salad with balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a refreshing and vibrant dish.

With these versatile ideas, you’ll make the most of your surplus basil leaves, transforming them into delectable additions to your culinary creations. (Updated as of June 23, 2022)

Discover the most effective method for preserving the vibrant flavors and aroma of fresh basil leaves with these step-by-step instructions. To ensure your basil stays fresh and fragrant for an extended period, begin by gently trimming the stems. Next, place the trimmed basil into a glass jar or vase filled with water, allowing the leaves to thrive in a water-rich environment. To maintain optimal freshness, cover the top of the jar with a plastic bag, creating a mini-greenhouse effect. Keep your basil jar at room temperature, avoiding direct sunlight, which can cause wilting. For long-lasting freshness, remember to periodically trim the stems and replace the water. These techniques will help you savor the delightful taste of basil in your culinary creations for weeks to come. (Updated as of August 2, 2021)

1. Dipping Oil – Chop finely and mix with other herbs such as thyme, oregano, minced garlic, and extra virgin olive oil. …
2. Pizza Topping – Try adding torn basil leaves as a pizza topping.
3. Caprese Salad – Nothing says summer like a Caprese salad.

1. Trim the Basil Stems. …
2. Put the Basil in a Jar or Glass Vase with Water. …
3. Cover with a Plastic Bag. …
4. Store Basil Jar at Room Temperature. …
5. Trim the Stems and Replace the Water Occasionally.