How to Preserve Fresh Basil

5 Ways to Preserve Fresh Basil Leaves

Your basil plant won't survive the winter in most areas in the United States. So what are you to do with all the fresh herbs in your garden? Thankfully there are a few different ways to preserve the fresh taste of basil. From freezing basil to making a puree with it, here's 5 ways to preserve fresh basil.

1. Freeze Basil Leaves
You can simply freeze the whole basil leaves or chop them and store them in a container or freezer bag, but keep in mind that they might shrink a little. These leaves are perfect in tomato sauce.

Remove basil leaves from the stem and toss them in a pot with boiling water for 3-5 seconds.
Remove with a slotted spoon and immediately transfer the leaves to a bowl of ice cold water.
Dry the leaves completely and store them in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag.
2.Make Basil Cubes

Chop fresh basil leaves in the food processor and drizzle in enough olive oil to form a paste. Spoon the mixture into an ice cube tray, freeze, and store the delicious flavor cubes in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag.

3. Make Pesto Cubes

Make your favorite pesto recipe in a food processor or mortar and pestle and pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze.

4. Dry Basil Leaves

Remove basil leaves from the stem, wash, and pat dry with a paper towel.
Set your oven to the lowest temperature and place the basil leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake the leaves for 2-4 hours until they're completely dried out and crumbly.
Crumble the leaves with your hands and store in an airtight container or mason jars.
5. Make Basil Vinegar

Place 3-4 basil springs into a bottle of vinegar and let it sit at room temperature for about two weeks, gently shaking the bottle every couple of days.

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