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Fresh cut basil is one of the most versatile and rewarding herbs to have in your kitchen, and the best thing you can do with it is use it almost immediately.
Whether you grabbed a bunch from your garden or the farmer’s market, what to do with fresh cut basil is a common question because it wilts so quickly if you don’t handle it right.
The good news is that fresh cut basil can transform simple meals into something spectacular, from pasta to salads to cocktails.
In this post, we’ll explore the best ways to store fresh cut basil for longevity, delicious recipes to make with fresh cut basil, and creative uses you might not have considered.
Let’s jump right in.
What To Do With Fresh Cut Basil: The Best Storage Methods
Understanding what to do with fresh cut basil starts with proper storage, because nothing ruins a dish faster than sad, blackened leaves.
Fresh cut basil is delicate and sensitive to cold, so you can’t just toss it in the fridge like other herbs.
Here are the top three ways to store fresh cut basil so it stays vibrant and flavorful.
1. The Bouquet Method
The most reliable way to handle fresh cut basil is to treat it like cut flowers.
Trim the ends of the stems at an angle and place the bunch in a glass or jar with about an inch of water.
Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and keep it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
With this method, your fresh cut basil will stay fresh for up to a week, which gives you plenty of time to decide what to do with it.
This is my go-to because it’s easy and keeps the leaves perky and fragrant.
2. The Damp Paper Towel Trick
If you’re short on space, another great option for fresh cut basil is wrapping it in a slightly damp paper towel.
Gently roll the basil in the towel and place it inside a zip-top bag, leaving the bag slightly open to allow airflow.
Keep this in the fridge’s crisper drawer, but check it daily for any moisture buildup.
Fresh cut basil stored this way will last a few days, though the bouquet method is still superior for longer storage.
You’ll notice the leaves stay darker and more appealing with this trick.
3. Freezing Fresh Cut Basil
When you have an abundance, knowing what to do with fresh cut basil means preserving it for later.
Freezing is one of the easiest preservation methods, and you have a couple of choices here.
You can chop the leaves, pack them into ice cube trays, and cover them with olive oil or water before freezing.
These basil cubes are perfect for dropping into soups and sauces all winter long.
Alternatively, you can lay whole clean leaves on a baking sheet and freeze them individually, then store them in a freezer bag.
Frozen fresh cut basil won’t have the same crisp texture, but it retains that incredible flavor beautifully.
Delicious Recipes Using Fresh Cut Basil
Beyond storage, what to do with fresh cut basil in your everyday cooking is where the magic happens.
Fresh cut basil is the heart of many classic dishes, and it’s so easy to incorporate.
Here are some of my favorite ways to use this fragrant herb.
1. Pesto, Of Course
Pesto is the most iconic answer to what to do with fresh cut basil.
Just blend a generous handful of fresh cut basil with pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and good olive oil.
You can swap in walnuts or almonds if you like, and it comes together in five minutes.
Toss it with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables.
Homemade pesto is richer and brighter than anything in a jar.
2. Caprese Salad
Fresh cut basil and ripe tomatoes are a match made in heaven.
Slice tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, layer them on a plate, and tuck whole fresh cut basil leaves between the layers.
Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, a pinch of salt, and a swirl of olive oil.
This salad is a summer staple and takes no time at all.
The key is using the freshest basil you can find.
3. Garlic Basil Butter
Another brilliant idea for fresh cut basil is to fold it into softened butter.
Mix finely chopped fresh cut basil with minced garlic, a little lemon zest, and salt.
Roll this compound butter into a log using plastic wrap and chill it.
Slice off rounds onto grilled steak, corn on the cob, or crusty bread.
This is an easy way to make any meal feel gourmet.
4. Basil Infused Oil or Vinegar
If you’re looking for longer-term projects, what to do with fresh cut basil can include making infused oils.
Gently heat olive oil with fresh cut basil in a saucepan without boiling it, then let it steep and strain.
This basil oil is fantastic for salads and dipping bread.
Similarly, you can add fresh cut basil to white wine vinegar for a herby salad dressing base.
These infusions last for weeks in the fridge.
5. Basil Simple Syrup for Drinks
Don’t forget beverages when thinking about what to do with fresh cut basil.
Make a simple syrup by simmering equal parts sugar and water, then add a big handful of fresh cut basil leaves.
Let it cool and strain it for a syrup that’s perfect in lemonade, mojitos, or iced tea.
You can also muddle fresh cut basil directly into cocktails for an herby twist.
It’s a refreshing surprise that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Creative Uses For Fresh Cut Basil Beyond The Kitchen
You might be surprised that what to do with fresh cut basil goes beyond just food.
This herb has some neat applications that you’ll want to try.
1. Homemade Basil Salt or Sugar
To make basil salt, just dry fresh cut basil thoroughly and pulse it in a food processor with coarse sea salt.
This herby salt is amazing on roasted chicken or grilled fish.
You can do the same with sugar for an aromatic rim for desserts and drinks.
It’s a thoughtful homemade gift idea too.
2. Add to Bath or Skincare Products
Fresh cut basil has a calming, earthy scent that can be used in DIY pampering.
Steep fresh cut basil in hot water and add it to your bath for a relaxing soak.
You can also blend it with aloe vera for a soothing skin mist.
It’s a refreshing way to use up extra leaves.
3. Create a Natural Room Freshener
Simmer fresh cut basil with lemon peels and a cinnamon stick on the stove for a natural home fragrance.
This is far better than chemical sprays and uses up any wilted-looking herbs.
Your house will smell amazing without any effort.
So, What To Do With Fresh Cut Basil?
Now you know exactly what to do with fresh cut basil, and the possibilities are endless.
Start by storing fresh cut basil properly so it lasts, and don’t be afraid to experiment with fresh cut basil in both sweet and savory dishes.
Whether you’re making pesto, infusing oils, or just tossing a few leaves into your salad, fresh cut basil is always a win.
So the next time you have a bunch in your hand, you’ll feel confident and creative.
Get out there and make something delicious with that gorgeous herb today.