Basil is an incredibly versatile herb that can be used in a wide range of recipes, from salads and soups to sauces and marinades. But what do you do with all the basil you’ve picked once your plants start to flourish? Whether you’re growing your own basil or buying it fresh at the store, it’s important to know how to store it properly and use it before it goes bad.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the best ways to preserve and use fresh basil, including drying, freezing, and even making homemade pesto. With these tips, you can enjoy the bright, bold flavor of basil all year round, even if you don’t have access to fresh herbs in the winter months. So whether you’re an experienced cook or a newbie in the kitchen, read on to learn more about what to do with basil after you pick it!
How to Store Basil So It Lasts Long
Basil is a versatile herb that adds incomparable flavor and aroma to dishes. However, it doesn’t take long for it to lose its freshness after picking, making it necessary to store it correctly. To ensure that basil lasts long after picking, it’s essential to store it correctly.
To store basil, start by trimming the stems and removing the lower leaves, as these leaves tend to wilt or turn brown quickly. Rinse the herb under cold water and dry it thoroughly in a clean kitchen towel or a salad spinner. Once dry, you can wrap the basil leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag. Alternatively, store them upright in a glass of water, as you would with a bouquet of flowers. Either method works well to preserve the basil’s freshness for up to a week in the refrigerator. By properly storing basil, you can enjoy its delicious flavor and aroma in your cooking for an extended period.
Top 5 Ways to Use Fresh Basil in Your Cooking
Fresh basil is a versatile herb that can be used in a range of different dishes. Here are five popular ways to use fresh basil in your cooking:
1. Pesto: Perhaps the most well-known use for fresh basil is in pesto sauce. Made with olive oil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, pesto is a delicious topping for pasta or bruschetta.
2. Caprese salad: Fresh mozzarella, sliced tomato, and basil leaves are a classic combination that is perfect for summer. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a simple yet flavorful dish.
3. Soups and stews: Add whole basil leaves to soups and stews for a fresh pop of flavor. Basil pairs particularly well with tomato-based soups.
4. Sandwiches: Elevate your sandwich game by adding fresh basil leaves to your favorite fillings. This works particularly well with Mediterranean-style sandwiches.
5. Cocktails: Basil is a surprisingly versatile ingredient in cocktails. Muddle it in a mojito or use it to garnish a Bloody Mary for a fresh twist on a classic drink.
How to Dry Basil for Later Use
One great way of preserving basil for later use is by drying it. This method ensures that the herb retains its flavor and aroma for an extended period. To start, first, rinse the basil and dry it thoroughly using a paper towel or salad spinner. Next, remove the leaves from the stem, discarding any damaged portions.
The quickest method for drying basil is by using a microwave oven. Spread the leaves on a paper towel and place them in the microwave for about two minutes on a low heat setting. Once the leaves are dry, crumble them into a jar and store them in a cool, dry place. Alternatively, you could dry the basil on a baking sheet in an oven or hang them upside down in a well-ventilated area for several days. Ensure that the leaves are fully dried before storing. With these simple steps, you will have your basil handy for use in your favorite recipes throughout the year.
Delicious Recipes to Make with Large Quantities of Basil
If you have a large quantity of basil, there are plenty of delicious recipes that you can make to use up the excess. One classic recipe is homemade pesto sauce, which can be used as a condiment or added to pasta dishes. It’s easy to make and requires only a few key ingredients – fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Simply blend the ingredients together in a food processor and store the finished pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
Another great recipe to make with large quantities of basil is Caprese salad. This classic Italian dish is made with fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and torn basil leaves, dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Not only is this salad delicious and refreshing, but it’s also a perfect summer dish that is quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re using basil from your garden or buying it in bulk, these recipes are a great way to use it up and enjoy its unique flavor and aroma.
Ways to Preserve Basil’s Flavor and Aroma
Basil is a popular herb that comes with a distinct flavor and aroma. If you have a surplus of basil after picking it, preserving it can help extend its lifespan and retain its flavor and aroma. One of the best ways to preserve basil is by freezing it. Simply clean the basil and place it on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the basil to an airtight container or resealable bag and store it in the freezer. You can use the frozen basil as needed in your recipes.
Another way to preserve basil is by making pesto. Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in pasta dishes, sandwiches, and even as a dip. To make pesto, blend basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil together until a smooth paste is formed. Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze it until needed. This is an excellent way to preserve basil’s flavor and aroma while also creating a delicious and convenient sauce for future use.
Creative Uses for Excess Basil in Your Garden
If you have an abundance of fresh basil in your garden, there are numerous creative ways to put it to use. One option is to make homemade pesto, which can be used as a dip or spread for bread, tossed with pasta, or used as a marinade for meat. Another option is to infuse olive oil with basil, which can be used for cooking or as a flavorful salad dressing.
You can also freeze excess basil leaves in ice cube trays, using the cubes to add flavor to soups and stews, or blend them into a refreshing summer drink. Additionally, drying basil leaves is a simple way to preserve them for later use in recipes. Consider using excess basil in infused vinegar, homemade salsa, or even as a topping for pizza or pasta dishes. With a bit of creativity, the possibilities are endless when it comes to utilizing your excess basil harvest.
How to Freeze and Store Basil Pesto
Freezing and storing basil pesto is an ideal option to preserve the fresh and vibrant flavor of basil for a long time. To freeze basil pesto, prepare it as usual, but omit any cheese and add a tablespoon of olive oil to improve the shelf life. Pour the pesto into ice cube trays and freeze for several hours. Once the cubes are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer. You can also freeze the pesto in small containers.
When you’re ready to use the frozen pesto, thaw the desired amount of cubes or container in the refrigerator overnight. To thaw quickly, place the cubes in a bowl of warm water until they’re fully thawed. You can use frozen pesto in your favorite recipes such as pasta, soups, dips, and sauces, or as a spread on sandwiches. Frozen basil pesto can last up to six months in the freezer, giving you delicious and fresh basil flavor in your meals all year round.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, freshly picked basil can be used in a multitude of ways to enhance flavor in many different dishes. Whether you decide to use it immediately or preserve it for later, basil is a versatile herb that adds a bright, aromatic touch to any meal. It can also be a great addition to cocktails or infused in oils and vinegars for a unique flavor experience.
Overall, caring for your basil plants and learning how to properly store and use the herb can be a rewarding experience for any home cook or gardener. By experimenting with different recipes and techniques, you can discover your favorite ways to use basil and create delicious, flavorful meals for yourself and your loved ones. So next time you pick fresh basil, don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with it.