Basil 2026

You do not keep fresh basil in the fridge if you want it to last, because the cold and damp conditions will quickly turn those vibrant green leaves into a sad, blackened mess.   Storing basil in the fridge is a common mistake, and it wrecks the flavor and texture that make fresh basil so … Read more

You don’t have to water basil every day, and in many cases, watering daily can actually harm your plant.   If you’ve been wondering whether you have to water basil every day, the short answer is no—basil thrives on a consistent but moderate watering schedule.   Watering basil every day often leads to soggy soil, … Read more

You can absolutely include basil stems in pesto, and you should.   Many home cooks toss them out without a second thought, but those stems are packed with the same bright, peppery basil flavor you love.   The trick is knowing how to handle them so your pesto stays smooth and creamy instead of turning … Read more

You do have to wash fresh basil, and it’s one of the most important steps before using it in your cooking.   Fresh basil straight from the garden or the store can carry dirt, tiny insects, and even residues that you don’t want in your pesto or salad.   If you’re wondering whether you have … Read more

Do you have to wash basil leaves? The short answer is yes, you absolutely do have to wash basil leaves before using them in your cooking. It might feel like a tedious extra step, especially when you’re in a hurry and just want to tear those fragrant leaves right off the stem. But washing basil … Read more