Contents
Introduction
When it comes to how to preserve basil, I’m your go-to gal. Basil is one of those herbs that can elevate any dish, from pasta to salads. But let’s be real — it can go bad faster than we want it to. Don’t stress, though! I’ve got the inside scoop on some awesome methods to store basil fresh all year long, thanks to advice from experts like *The Kitchn*, Robin Asbell, and *The Mediterranean Dish*. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Tips from The Kitchn
Refrigeration
First off, one of the simplest ways to preserve basil is through refrigeration. You simply take your fresh basil and wrap it in a damp paper towel. This may sound basic, but it’s a game-changer. Why? Because it keeps the basil moist without making it soggy. You’ll want to store it in a resealable plastic bag after wrapping it. This method allows your basil to stay fresh for up to a week!
> “This method works wonders for those days when you just want a sprinkle of that herby flavor!”
Freezing
Next up is freezing. I know it sounds daring, but trust me — it’s a must-try. Start by chopping your basil leaves and mixing them with good quality olive oil. Then, plop that mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once those cubes are solid, toss them into a freezer bag. You can use these little flavor bombs whenever you need a pinch of basil for your stews or sauces.
Did you know that freezing basil this way keeps its flavor intact? It’s hefty win-win! You can always check out more details about this freezing technique on *The Kitchn*.
Making Basil Oil
If you want to take your basil preservation game to the next level, consider making basil oil. It’s super easy! Blend fresh basil with olive oil until it’s smooth. After that, strain the mixture and store it in a bottle. This homemade basil oil can be drizzled over pizzas or used in salad dressings. Who wouldn’t want that?
Methods from Robin Asbell
Basil-Infused Oil
Now, let’s pivot to Robin Asbell and her genius ideas. One of my favorites is creating a basil-infused oil. Blending basil and olive oil isn’t just tasty; it’s versatile! You can use it as a base for salad dressings or as a finishing oil for roasted veggies.
This method lets you experience fresh basil flavor long after the growing season. Plus, storing basil in oil is a cool trick that allows you to keep it much longer.
Drying Basil
If you’re more of a low-maintenance gardener, drying basil could be your thing. Simply remove the leaves from the stems, wash and dry them, and then either hang them upside down in a dry place or use a dehydrator. This preservation method is simple and effective.
Not like drying basil? Totally fine! You can opt for the freezing method or the infused oil technique instead. Each has its perks and makes storing herbs effortless.
Freezing Methods
Robin emphasizes another stunning frozen method for preservation. Pureeing basil leaves with a bit of water and freezing them in ice cube trays is a smart move. It’s like creating your custom herb cubes! These are perfect for throwing into sauces or soups, adding both flavor and nutrients.
Techniques from The Mediterranean Dish
Storing in Water
Moving on, let’s discuss a more unconventional method that *The Mediterranean Dish* swears by: storing basil in water. Here’s how it goes: take a glass, fill it with water, and put the stems of your basil in it. Cover the leaves with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse. This helps keep the basil fresh for weeks on your countertop.
I tried it myself, and I was impressed! Not only does it work like a charm, but it also looks pretty nice sitting out.
Best Practices for Storage
Lastly, we should talk about the best practices for storing basil. Avoid refrigeration when possible! Basil tends to turn dark and wilt in cold temperatures. Trust me, it’s better to keep your basil at room temperature in a spot with ample light, but out of direct sunlight. This way, you maintain its lovely green color and fresh flavor.
Conclusion
So there you have it! With these simple methods from freezing to drying, I’m sure you’re on board with keeping your basil fresh and vibrant for all those delicious dishes. If you enjoyed this article or have any thoughts, let’s chat in the comments! Don’t forget to check out more about gardening on Starter Vegetable Gardens.
