Guide: How to Store Fresh Basil from the Garden Successfully

Author:

Sarah Castillo

Published:

09/12/2023

Updated:

09/22/2023

how to store fresh basil from the garden

To store fresh basil from the garden successfully, there are several methods you can try. Storing fresh basil can be a challenge as it tends to wilt and turn dark quickly. However, with the right techniques, you can keep your basil fresh for up to two weeks.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

Treat basil like a bouquet of flowers to keep it hydrated and prevent wilting.
Store basil in the refrigerator using a salad green method.
Freeze basil for long-term storage.
Dehydrate basil for use as dried herbs.
Avoid direct sunlight and properly clean basil before storing.

Method 1: Treat Basil Like a Flower Bouquet

One method is to treat basil like a flower bouquet by trimming the stems and placing them in a jar or glass of water. This method is easy and practical for those who want to preserve their basil for up to 2 weeks. Here are some steps to follow:

Trim the basil stems about 1 inch from the bottom.
Place the trimmed stems in a jar or glass of water, just like you would with a bouquet of flowers.
Cover the basil loosely with a plastic bag or wrap to keep it from drying out.
Store the basil at room temperature away from direct sunlight.

By following these steps, you can keep your basil fresh and flavorful for up to 2 weeks. This method is especially useful if you have a lot of fresh basil from the garden that you want to use in different recipes over time.

If you want to store your basil for a longer time, you can also freeze it. Blanch the basil leaves before placing them in freezer-safe bags. Alternatively, you could also store basil like salad greens or dehydrate it for use as dried herbs. The key to any of these storage methods is to keep your basil clean, dry, and away from direct sunlight.

Method 2: Store Basil Like Salad Greens

Another method for storing fresh basil is to treat it like a bouquet of flowers. This involves placing the trimmed stems in a jar or glass vase filled halfway with water, covering the leaves and the jar with a plastic bag, and storing the jar at room temperature on the kitchen counter. By following this method, you can extend the freshness of your basil for up to 2 weeks.

To use this method for storing basil, first, trim the basil stems at a 45-degree angle. Then, fill a jar or glass vase with water, about halfway full. Place the trimmed stems in the jar and cover the leaves and the jar with a plastic bag, but make sure to keep the bag loose to allow airflow.

It is important to change the water every few days and trim the stems for optimal freshness. By doing so, you can ensure that your basil stays fresh and flavorful for a longer period.

If you do not plan on using your basil within two weeks, you can freeze it instead. Freezing can preserve its flavor for months. To freeze basil, blanch the leaves in boiling water for 10 seconds, transfer them to an ice bath, wring out excess water, arrange the leaves on a cookie sheet and freeze, then transfer the frozen leaves to a freezer-safe bag.

There are other methods for storing fresh basil, including storing it in the fridge in a loose plastic bag or in a sealed quart container with a small amount of water, or drying it for later use. But treating basil like salad greens is one of the best ways to store basil leaves and keep them fresh.

Method 3: Freeze Basil for Long-Term Storage

Freezing basil is another option if you have an excess amount. This method is perfect for those who want to preserve the freshness and aroma of basil for later use. Freezing basil involves a simple method that requires blanching the leaves in boiling water for a few seconds, followed by an ice bath to preserve their green color.

After blanching, remove the leaves from the ice bath and pat them dry. Arrange the leaves on a cookie sheet and freeze them for around 12 hours. Once the leaves are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store them in the freezer for months.

This method is especially suitable for those who want to use fresh basil in their cooking all year round. You can easily thaw the frozen basil by adding it to your favorite soups, stews, or sauces.

With frozen basil, you can enjoy fresh, just-picked flavor even when basil is out of season. You can add the frozen basil directly to your dishes while cooking, or you can let it thaw and then use it as a garnish for your dishes. This method saves you a lot of money and time as you can store excess basil for later use, reducing food waste.

Method 4: Dehydrate Basil for Dried Herb

Additionally, you can make basil cubes by thinly slicing the leaves and placing them in an ice cube tray, then filling each compartment with olive oil. However, for a dried herb option, there are several methods that can be used to dehydrate basil.

One popular method is to trim the basil stems and place them in a jar or glass vase with water. The leaves should not be submerged in the water to avoid them turning dark and slimy. The jar of basil can then be covered with a plastic bag and stored at room temperature on the kitchen counter. The water should be changed every few days and the stems trimmed regularly to keep the basil fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Another method is to freeze the basil. This is a great option if there is an abundance of basil and you want to keep it for longer. The leaves can be blanched in boiling water for a few seconds, then transferred to an ice bath. After drying the leaves, they can be arranged on a cookie sheet and frozen for 12 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.

For a more flavorful option, basil can be preserved in olive oil using an ice cube tray. The leaves are washed, dried, thinly sliced, and placed in the compartments of an ice cube tray. Olive oil is then poured into each compartment, covering the leaves, before freezing. The basil cubes can be stored in a resealable bag.

If there is excess basil and making pesto is not an option, the leaves can be dried. This is a common method for preserving basil as a garnish or for use in dishes such as salads or pasta. The fresh basil can be hung upside down in a cool, dry place until completely dried. Once dried, the leaves can be crumbled and stored in an airtight container.

In conclusion, dehydrating basil for dried herb can be done using methods such as storing in water, freezing, preserving in olive oil, or drying. Each method has its own benefits and can be chosen based on personal preference and the intended use of the dried basil.

Other Tips for Storing Basil

Properly storing basil can help to retain its freshness and flavor for longer periods of time. In addition to the methods discussed earlier, there are a few more tips and tricks to keep in mind when storing fresh basil.

Avoid direct sunlight: Basil leaves can quickly wilt and lose flavor when exposed to direct sunlight. Store your basil in a cool, dark place for the best results.
Clean thoroughly: Before storing your basil, make sure to rinse the leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a paper towel or clean cloth to avoid excess moisture.
Try different containers: While plastic containers or resealable bags are common for storing basil, you can also try using jars or glass containers to keep your leaves fresh.
Use a sealable bag: If you’re using a plastic bag to store your basil, make sure it is completely sealed to keep out any excess air or moisture.
Experiment with storage times: Depending on the method you choose, basil can stay fresh anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Try different storage times to see what method works best for you.

With these tips in mind, you can prolong the life of your fresh basil and enjoy its delicious flavor for longer.

How Can I Ensure Success in Growing Basil in My Home Garden?

Growing basil in your home garden can be a rewarding experience. To grow a successful garden at home, start by selecting a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Sow basil seeds indoors or directly in the garden, ensuring they are properly spaced. Remember to water consistently and provide adequate sunlight. Harvest the leaves regularly to encourage bushier growth. With these simple steps, you can successfully grow basil in your home garden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, following these methods and tips will ensure that your fresh basil from the garden stays vibrant and tasty for longer. Whether you choose to store your basil like a flower bouquet, like salad greens, freeze it, or dehydrate it, it is important to keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture. Changing the water and trimming the stems regularly when storing basil in water will help extend its lifespan. Refrigerating basil in a loose bag or leaving it in its original packaging is not recommended, as it tends to wilt and turn brown quickly. Choosing the best method for storing basil depends on personal preferences and the desired longevity of the herb. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your garden-fresh basil for weeks to come.

FAQ

Q: How long can fresh basil be stored using the flower bouquet method?

A: Fresh basil can be stored using the flower bouquet method for up to 2 weeks.

Q: How should I store basil like salad greens?

A: After washing and drying the leaves, wrap them in a dry paper towel and store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze basil for long-term storage?

A: Yes, you can freeze basil by blanching it in boiling water, then transferring it to an ice bath. Freeze the leaves on a cookie sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.

Q: How can I make basil cubes?

A: Thinly slice the basil leaves and place them in an ice cube tray. Fill each compartment with olive oil, freeze the tray, and store the cubes in a resealable bag.

Q: What is the best way to dehydrate basil?

A: Hang the basil upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area until the leaves are crispy, then store them in an airtight container.

Q: Are there any other tips for storing basil?

A: Yes, it’s important to avoid direct sunlight when storing basil and to properly clean the leaves before storage.