What To Do With Extra Fresh Basil

There are endless things to do with extra fresh basil, and the best part is you likely have more options than you realize right now.
 
If you’ve got a thriving plant or an overgenerous farmers market haul, figuring out what to do with extra fresh basil is a delicious problem to have.
 
You can use extra fresh basil in so many ways that go way beyond just tossing it on top of pasta.
 
In this post, we’ll explore the best ways to preserve, cook, and enjoy every single leaf so nothing goes to waste.
 
Let’s dive into all the amazing possibilities for your extra fresh basil.
 

Why You Should Use Extra Fresh Basil Immediately

Using extra fresh basil quickly is key because this herb is notoriously delicate and doesn’t last long once picked.
 
The leaves bruise easily and can turn black if not handled properly.
 
When you have extra fresh basil, the clock is ticking on its vibrant flavor and aroma.
 
So knowing what to do with extra fresh basil right away will save you from throwing away a fragrant, leafy treasure.
 
Here are the main reasons to act fast with your extra fresh basil.
 

1. Fresh Basil Loses Its Essential Oils Fast

The incredible scent and taste of extra fresh basil come from its essential oils.
 
These oils evaporate quickly once the leaves are separated from the plant.
 
This means the longer you wait, the less flavorful your extra fresh basil becomes.
 
Using it quickly locks in that peppery, sweet, and slightly minty kick that makes basil so special.
 

2. It’s Prone to Wilting and Bruising

Extra fresh basil leaves are mostly water, which makes them prone to wilting fast.
 
They also bruise easily, so any rough handling can lead to unsightly dark spots.
 
If you’re wondering what to do with extra fresh basil, consider that delicate nature a signal to act now rather than later.
 

Best Ways to Use Extra Fresh Basil in the Kitchen

This is where the fun really begins when you have extra fresh basil.
 
There are countless recipes that can handle a generous handful, and even more that can handle a full cup.
 
Let’s look at some of the most classic and delicious ways to use your extra fresh basil.
 

1. Blend It Into Pesto

Pesto is the ultimate answer to what to do with extra fresh basil.
 
You can make a huge batch with your extra fresh basil, pine nuts, parmesan, garlic, and olive oil.
 
Pesto freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy that summer taste for months.
 
Just blend all your extra fresh basil with the other ingredients and freeze in ice cube trays.
 
Pop out a cube anytime you need a quick sauce, marinade, or spread.
 

2. Infuse It Into Oils and Vinegars

Another fantastic way to use extra fresh basil is to infuse its flavor into oils or vinegars.
 
Simply stuff a clean bottle with extra fresh basil leaves and cover them with good quality olive oil.
 
Let it sit for a week or two, and you’ll have a fragrant oil perfect for dipping bread or drizzling over salads.
 
You can do the same with white wine vinegar for a bright, herby kick in dressings.
 

3. Make a Big Batch of Basil Butter

Basil butter is a simple yet luxurious way to use extra fresh basil.
 
Just soften a stick of butter and mix in finely chopped extra fresh basil, salt, and a squeeze of lemon.
 
Roll it up in parchment paper and chill it.
 
This herby butter is incredible on grilled corn, steak, or warm crusty bread.
 
It’s a quick and elegant solution for what to do with extra fresh basil.
 

4. Whip Up a Fresh Basil Simple Syrup

Don’t forget the sweeter side of using extra fresh basil.
 
Make a basil simple syrup by simmering sugar, water, and a big handful of extra fresh basil leaves.
 
Strain it and you’ll have a delightful syrup for cocktails, lemonades, or iced tea.
 
This is a creative and unexpected way to use extra fresh basil that will impress your guests.
 

Preserving Extra Fresh Basil for Later Use

If you can’t use all your extra fresh basil right away, you have some great storage options.
 
Freezing and drying are the most popular methods, but they yield very different results.
 
Here’s how to preserve extra fresh basil so you can enjoy it long after the season ends.
 

1. Freezing Extra Fresh Basil Leaves

Freezing is the best way to keep the flavor of extra fresh basil intact.
 
You can freeze whole leaves, but they’ll turn mushy when thawed, so they’re best used in cooked dishes.
 
For a better option, puree your extra fresh basil with a little olive oil and freeze it in ice cube trays.
 
These basil cubes are perfect for adding a flavor punch to soups, stews, and sauces.
 

2. Layer Leaves to Dry Them

Drying is another way to preserve extra fresh basil, but it changes the flavor profile significantly.
 
The leaves lose some of their pungency and take on a more subtle, earthy flavor.
 
To dry extra fresh basil, lay the leaves in a single layer on a paper towel and microwave in short bursts.
 
Then, crumble the dried extra fresh basil into an airtight jar for seasoning.
 

3. Store in a Glass of Water

For short-term storage, you can treat extra fresh basil like cut flowers.
 
Trim the stems and place them in a glass of water, covering the top with a plastic bag.
 
This method keeps extra fresh basil fresh for about a week on the counter.
 
It’s a simple trick for when you need to stretch the life of your extra fresh basil for just a few more days.
 

So, What to Do With Extra Fresh Basil?

There are so many things to do with extra fresh basil, and it all comes down to your immediate needs and future plans.
 
You can use extra fresh basil to make vibrant pesto, flavorful infused oils, or creative and tasty simple syrups.
 
If you’re not ready to use it, you can also preserve extra fresh basil by freezing it into convenient cubes or drying it into a shelf-stable spice.
 
The key is to act quickly to capture the best flavor from your extra fresh basil.
 
So next time you find yourself with an abundance, don’t let it go to waste.
 
You have a world of delicious culinary possibilities waiting for your extra fresh basil.