What To Do With A Lot Of Fresh Basil

There’s a lot you can do with a lot of fresh basil, from making pesto to freezing it for later.

If you’re staring at a massive bunch of basil that’s way more than you can sprinkle on a salad, you’re in the right place.

What to do with a lot of fresh basil is a fun challenge that leads to some seriously delicious rewards.

In this post, we’ll explore practical, tasty, and clever ways to use every single leaf so nothing goes to waste.

We’ll also share tips on storing your basil so it stays fresh for as long as possible.

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of this aromatic herb.

Why You Need a Plan for a Lot of Fresh Basil

When you have a lot of fresh basil, the clock starts ticking because it wilts fast.

The biggest mistake is leaving it in the fridge without care, which turns those vibrant leaves into sad, black mush.

A plan helps you preserve the bright, peppery flavor that makes basil so special.

That’s why knowing what to do with a lot of fresh basil in advance is key.

Let’s look at some of the best ways to handle a big harvest.

1. Make Classic Pesto in Bulk

Pesto is the undisputed champion when it comes to what to do with a lot of fresh basil.

This sauce uses a huge amount of leaves, so it’s perfect for using up your stash.

Toss a few cups of basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, and olive oil in a food processor.

You can freeze this pesto in ice cube trays for quick, single-serving doses of flavor.

This way, you can enjoy summer’s basil taste all winter long.

2. Freeze the Leaves for Easy Cooking

Freezing is one of the simplest answers for what to do with a lot of fresh basil.

You can chop the leaves and pack them into ice cube trays, then top them with olive oil or water.

Once frozen, these basil cubes are perfect for dropping into soups, stews, or sauces.

Another method is to blanch the leaves quickly, then freeze them flat on a baking sheet.

This preserves their bright green color and makes them easy to break apart and use.

3. Blend Up a Fresh Basil Vinaigrette

A vibrant vinaigrette is a fantastic answer for what to do with a lot of fresh basil.

Blend a generous handful of basil with olive oil, red wine vinegar, a bit of Dijon mustard, and honey.

This dressing isn’t just for salads; it’s amazing drizzled over grilled chicken or roasted veggies.

You can also use this mixture as a marinade for meats or a finishing sauce for pasta.

It’s a light and herby way to use your basil by the cupful.

4. Infuse Olive Oil or Vinegar

Infusing oil is a slow, aromatic way to handle a lot of fresh basil.

Gently warm olive oil with bruised basil leaves to extract the essential oils.

Let it cool and then strain it into a clean bottle for infused oil.

This oil adds a punch of basil flavor to salad dressings or for dipping crusty bread.

You can also stuff a bottle with basil sprigs and cover them with white wine vinegar.

Let it sit for a couple of weeks to create a fantastic base for vinaigrettes.

5. Whip Up a Batch of Basil Butter

Basil butter is another stellar choice for what to do with a lot of fresh basil.

Beat softened butter with finely chopped basil, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lemon.

Roll it into a log using plastic wrap and chill it until firm.

This compound butter is incredible melted over a steak, stirred into rice, or spread on corn on the cob.

You can even freeze the logs and slice off pieces as needed.

More Creative Ways to Use a Large Basil Bounty

Pesto isn’t the end of the story for your basil pile.

Here are extra ways to use up that fragrant mountain of leafy greens.

1. Create a Basil Syrup for Drinks

Turn a lot of fresh basil into a sweet, herbal syrup for cocktails.

Simmer equal parts sugar and water with a big pile of basil leaves.

Strain the syrup and let it cool to have a vibrant green or brown-tinged sweetener.

This syrup makes a mean basil mojito or a lemonade twist.

It’s a unique and exciting idea for what to do with a lot of fresh basil.

2. Dry the Basil for a Lasting Spice

Drying is a low-effort method for what to do with a lot of fresh basil.

You can hang bunches upside down in a dry, dark place until they’re crispy.

Or, you can use a dehydrator or a low-heat oven to speed up the process.

Once dry, crumble the leaves and store them in an airtight jar.

It won’t have the exact fresh flavor, but it’s a useful pantry staple.

3. Top Your Pizzas and Flatbreads Generously

Get creative in the kitchen and use your basil as a main topping.

You can use fresh basil on pizza, adding it after baking to keep its fresh crunch.

Try making a white pizza with ricotta, garlic, and a heap of whole basil leaves.

You can also chop basil and mix it into your pizza dough for green, herby crusts.

This is a delicious way to use up a lot of fresh basil in one sitting.

4. Make a Big Batch of Basil Pesto Hummus

Pesto hummus is a party dip that can handle a huge amount of basil.

Combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon, and a mountain of basil in a blender.

The basil not only turns the hummus a beautiful green but adds a fresh kick.

You can serve it fresh or store it in the fridge for a few days.

This is a healthy and snackable answer for what to do with a lot of fresh basil.

The Best Storage Methods to Extend Freshness

Before you get to using your basil, you need to keep it alive.

Proper storage will give you more time to plan and use your supply.

1. The Bouquet Method for Short-Term Storage

Treat basil like cut flowers to keep it fresh for up to a week.

Trim the stems and place the bunch in a jar with about an inch of water.

Set the jar on your counter and cover loosely with a plastic bag.

This method works far better than sticking them in the fridge.

Basil hates the cold, so this keeps it at the ideal temperature.

2. Freezing Whole Leaves for Later

When you have a lot of fresh basil, freezing is a huge help.

Flash-freeze whole leaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Once frozen, you can transfer them to a freezer bag.

This allows you to grab a few leaves at a time without a clump stuck together.

Just remember frozen basil is best for cooking, not for garnishes.

So, What to Do with a Lot of Fresh Basil?

There’s a lot you can do with a lot of fresh basil, from classic pesto to infused butter.

Whether you freeze, dry, or blend, your basil will never go to waste.

So next time you have a bush of basil, you have plenty of tasty options.

Choose your favorite trick and get cooking.

Your meals will thank you for the fresh, herby boost.