How to Store Fresh Basil
What’s the best way to store fresh basil? Here are 2 ways to keep fresh, cut basil lasting as long as possible. Of course, you could also dry it, freeze it or turn it into pesto – but for now, here’s how to keep it in it’s fresh, cut state.
Read more: Panzanella Tomato & Basil Salad, Bruschetta with Fresh Basil, Strawberry Basil Salad.
Two Ways to Keep Fresh Basil
Here’s how to keep basil fresh for 7-12 days – sometimes longer. Just remember, basil is a diva – she does not like being cold or wet. So if you’re making a bouquet, keep it on the counter and don’t wash it til you’re ready to use it.
1. Keep Basil like a Bouquet of Flowers
- Perfect for long or short stems – just use a different size jar.
- Strip the bottom leaves so there are no leaves in the water.
- Keep at room temperature – not the fridge.
- Change water every 2-3 days to keep it fresh.
- For big, thick stems, cut the bottoms every 3-4 days.
2. Wrap Loosely for the Fridge
- Ideal when you just have leaves or tiny stems you can’t put in water.
- Keep leaves dry.
- Lay on paper towel or cotton towel and wrap loosely.
- Store in container or plastic bag in warmest part of fridge (a crisper drawer).
- Check every 2-3 days, if drying out add a tiny bit of water to towel to lightly dampen it, if it’s getting soggy, replace the towel with a dry one.
How to Store Fresh Basil
How to Store Fresh Basil
Ingredients
- Fresh Basil
Instructions
1. The Fresh Bouquet Technique
- Treat your basil like you would a fresh bouquet of flowers.
- Strip leaves off the bottom of the stems so there are no leaves below the water line. Place basil in a jar or vase of water.
- Place on counter not the fridge – basil prefers warm temps.
- Change and add water every couple of days.
- Your basil bouquet will last one to two weeks.
2. The Wrap Technique
- Lay basil in a single layer on paper or cotton towel and roll. Place this roll in a container or plastic bag and keep in warmest part of the fridge (crisper drawer). This works well when you don't have long stems on your basil.
- Use within a week.
Video
Notes
More Ways to Preserve & Store Basil
If you simply have no luck keeping fresh basil fresh then go ahead and freeze or dry whatever you don’t use right away. It’s easy and you’ll get to enjoy that great basil flavor!
- How to Air Dry Basil
- How to Dry Basil in a Dehydrator
- How to Dry Basil in the Microwave
- How to Make Basil Pesto
- How to Freeze Basil
Video: How to Store Fresh Basil Leaves
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