How To Store Extra Basil Leaves

You can store extra basil leaves by using a few simple preservation methods that keep them fresh, flavorful, and ready for your favorite recipes.
 
If you’ve ever found yourself with a bumper crop of basil and wondered how to store extra basil leaves without them turning into a sad, slimy mess, you’re in the right place.
 
Storing extra basil leaves isn’t complicated, but it does require a slightly different approach than other herbs because basil is delicate and doesn’t love the cold.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through the best ways to store extra basil leaves, from short-term fridge tricks to long-term freezer and oil methods.
 
Let’s dig in and make sure none of that gorgeous basil goes to waste.
 

Why Storing Extra Basil Leaves Is Different

Basil is a tender herb, which means its leaves are full of moisture and very sensitive to temperature and bruising.
 
Unlike hardy herbs like rosemary or thyme, basil doesn’t dry well on its own, and it wilts quickly if you just toss it in the fridge.
 
The key to storing extra basil leaves successfully is to understand that basil needs humidity, but not wetness, and it needs cool, but not freezing cold.
 
Once you get that balance right, you can keep fresh basil tasting vibrant for up to two weeks or even several months with the right method.
 

1. The Stem-and-Jar Method for Short-Term Storage

If you only need to store extra basil leaves for a few days, this is the absolute best way to do it.
 
Treat your basil like a bouquet of flowers, and it will reward you with crisp, perky leaves.
 
Start by trimming the ends of the stems at a slight angle, just like you would with cut flowers.
 
Place the basil stems in a jar or glass with about an inch of water, making sure no leaves are submerged.
 
Cover the jar loosely with a plastic bag or a produce bag and secure it with a rubber band.
 
This creates a little greenhouse effect that traps humidity while still allowing airflow.
 
Keep the jar on your counter at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, and change the water every day or two.
 
Using this method, you can store extra basil leaves for up to a week or more, and they’ll stay fresh and aromatic the whole time.
 

2. The Paper Towel and Fridge Hack

Maybe you need to store extra basil leaves that are already picked and off the stem, so the jar method won’t work for you.
 
In that case, the paper towel method is your next best friend for short-term fridge storage.
 
First, gently wash your basil leaves and dry them extremely well, because any excess moisture will cause them to rot quickly.
 
Lay the dry leaves in a single layer on a slightly damp (not wet) paper towel.
 
Roll the towel up loosely, like you’re rolling a sleeping bag, and place it inside a zip-top bag or an airtight container.
 
Leave the bag slightly open to allow a bit of air circulation, and pop it in the crisper drawer of your fridge.
 
This method is perfect if you want to store extra basil leaves that are already prepped and ready to chop into salads or sauces.
 
Just check the towel every couple of days and re-dampen it lightly if it feels dry, and your leaves should last about five to seven days.
 

Freezing Basil Leaves for Long-Term Storage

When you have a massive harvest and you need to store extra basil leaves for months, freezing is the way to go.
 
Freezing basil is fantastic because it locks in that fresh, peppery flavor, even though the texture will soften significantly.
 
So if you’re planning to use frozen basil in cooked dishes like soups, stews, or sauces, you won’t even notice the change in texture.
 

1. Freezing Whole Basil Leaves

To freeze whole leaves, start by washing and completely drying your basil.
 
Lay the dry leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re not touching each other.
 
Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about two hours, or until the leaves are frozen solid.
 
Once they’re frozen, transfer the individual leaves into a freezer-safe bag or container, and squeeze out as much air as possible.
 
Using this flash-freeze method, you can store extra basil leaves for up to six months, and you can grab just a few leaves at a time without them clumping together.
 

2. Making Basil Ice Cubes

Another brilliant way to store extra basil leaves is by turning them into convenient ice cubes.
 
You can either freeze whole leaves in water or blend them up with a little oil first.
 
For whole leaves, simply stuff each compartment of an ice cube tray with a few leaves, fill with water, and freeze.
 
For a more flavor-packed option, puree your basil leaves with olive oil in a food processor until you have a smooth paste.
 
Spoon the paste into ice cube trays, freeze, then pop the cubes out and store them in a freezer bag.
 
These basil cubes are perfect for dropping straight into hot pasta, curries, or any dish that needs a burst of fresh basil flavor.
 
With this method, you can store extra basil leaves for up to a year, and you’ll always have that summer taste on hand.
 

Storing Basil in Oil for a Flavorful Twist

If you want to store extra basil leaves and also create a delicious cooking ingredient at the same time, storing them in oil is a fantastic option.
 
This method not only preserves the basil but also infuses the oil with an incredible herby aroma.
 
You’ll need a clean glass jar, some good quality olive oil, and fresh, dry basil leaves.
 
Pack the leaves into the jar, leaving some space at the top, and then pour olive oil over them until they’re completely submerged.
 
Use a spoon or a chopstick to press the leaves down and release any trapped air bubbles.
 
Seal the jar and store it in the fridge, where it will keep for about two to three weeks.
 
This is a great way to store extra basil leaves if you use basil-infused oil regularly for drizzling over salads or dipping bread.
 
Just remember that raw garlic in oil can carry a risk of botulism, so stick to pure basil and oil for refrigerator storage only.
 

So, How Should You Store Extra Basil Leaves?

You can store extra basil leaves in multiple ways, and the best method depends entirely on how soon you plan to use them.
 
For a few days, use the stem-and-jar counter method or the paper towel fridge hack.
 
For a few months, freeze whole leaves on a tray or make convenient basil ice cubes with water or oil.
 
For a quick flavor boost, submerge basil leaves in olive oil and keep them in the fridge for up to three weeks.
 
No matter which method you choose, the most important rule is to handle basil gently and make sure it’s completely dry before any storage.
 
So the next time you have an abundance of fresh basil, don’t let it wilt in the back of your fridge.
 
Pick one of these easy techniques to store extra basil leaves, and you’ll be enjoying that fresh garden taste long after the plant has stopped growing.