What To Do With Lemon Basil Leaves

There are so many wonderful things you can do with lemon basil leaves, and they can absolutely transform your everyday cooking.
 
You can use lemon basil leaves in salads, marinades, desserts, and refreshing summer drinks.
 
If you are looking for delicious ways to use lemon basil leaves, you have come to the right place.
 
This fragrant herb brings a bright, citrusy twist to both sweet and savory dishes.
 
In this post, we will explore the best ways to use lemon basil leaves so you can enjoy this amazing herb to its fullest.
 
Let’s dive into the many creative things you can do with lemon basil leaves.
 

Why You Should Cook With Lemon Basil Leaves

Lemon basil leaves are a culinary treasure that many home cooks overlook.
 
Unlike regular sweet basil, lemon basil leaves offer a unique combination of herbal and citrus notes.
 
The flavor is bright, zesty, and slightly sweet, making it incredibly versatile.
 
When you use lemon basil leaves, you add a refreshing lift that lemon zest alone cannot replicate.
 
The aroma alone is enough to make your kitchen smell amazing.
 
Let’s look at the best reasons to start using lemon basil leaves in your kitchen today.
 

1. They Elevate Simple Salads Instantly

One of the easiest ways to use lemon basil leaves is by tossing them into a fresh green salad.
 
Instead of using only lettuce and spinach, add a handful of whole or torn lemon basil leaves.
 
The citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with ripe tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
 
You can use lemon basil leaves as the main green in a simple salad with olive oil and salt.
 
When you use lemon basil leaves in a salad, you don’t need a heavy dressing because the herb carries the dish.
 
A squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of honey over the leaves is all you need.
 

2. They Brighten Up Pasta and Grain Bowls

If you want to use lemon basil leaves in a warm dish, stir them in right at the end of cooking.
 
The heat will slightly wilt the leaves and release their fragrant oils.
 
You can use lemon basil leaves in a simple pasta with garlic, chili flakes, and parmesan.
 
They also work wonders in quinoa or rice bowls, adding a fresh kick to earthy grains.
 
Another great way to use lemon basil leaves is in a creamy pesto.
 
Blend them with cashews or pine nuts, garlic, cheese, and olive oil for a pesto with a sunny twist.
 
This lemon basil pesto is fantastic on sandwiches, grilled chicken, or stirred into warm pasta.
 

3. They Make Refreshing Drinks and Cocktails

You can use lemon basil leaves to create delicious and refreshing beverages.
 
Muddle a few leaves at the bottom of a glass with a little sugar and lime juice.
 
Then top with sparkling water for a sophisticated alcohol-free spritzer.
 
If you enjoy cocktails, you can use lemon basil leaves in a mojito or a gin and tonic.
 
The bright citrus flavor is a perfect match for white rum and fresh berries.
 
You can also steep lemon basil leaves in hot water to make a soothing herbal tea.
 
Adding a little honey and lemon to that tea will make your use of lemon basil leaves feel like a spa ritual.
 

Creative Ways To Use Lemon Basil Leaves in Desserts

Most people don’t expect to use lemon basil leaves in sweets, and that is exactly why you should try it.
 
The sweet, citrusy notes of the leaves are surprisingly perfect for desserts.
 
Here are some delightful ways to use lemon basil leaves when you have a sweet tooth.
 

1. Infuse Syrups and Creams

You can use lemon basil leaves to infuse simple syrup for cocktails, lemonades, or drizzling over cakes.
 
Simmer a cup of water, a cup of sugar, and a handful of lemon basil leaves together.
 
Strain the leaves out, and you have a gorgeous citrus-herb syrup.
 
This syrup is also amazing over fresh fruit or vanilla ice cream.
 
You can also use lemon basil leaves to infuse heavy cream for panna cotta or ice cream.
 
The cream takes on a delicate, aromatic flavor that is subtle and elegant.
 

2. Pair With Stone Fruits and Berries

One of the best ways to use lemon basil leaves is to pair them with fruits like peaches, strawberries, or blueberries.
 
Chop the leaves finely and toss them with sliced stone fruits and a little sugar.
 
Let the mixture sit for a few minutes so the flavors can mingle.
 
You can use lemon basil leaves in a fruit crisp or a simple fruit salad.
 
Another idea is to use lemon basil leaves to make a quick compote.
 
Cook the leaves with berries and a little sugar, then spoon it over yogurt or pancakes.
 

Practical Tips For Storing and Preserving Lemon Basil Leaves

Knowing what to do with lemon basil leaves also means knowing how to keep them fresh and flavorful.
 
Fresh lemon basil leaves have a short life span if you store them poorly.
 
Here is how to make the most out of your harvest so you can use lemon basil leaves for weeks.
 

1. Store Them Like Cut Flowers

When you buy or pick lemon basil leaves, do not just leave them in a plastic bag.
 
Trim the stems and place the bunch in a jar of water, like you would with fresh flowers.
 
Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and keep the jar on the counter.
 
Using this method, the leaves will stay fresh for up to a week.
 
Just be sure to change the water every couple of days.
 

2. Freeze Them for Later Use

If you have a surplus, you can use lemon basil leaves by freezing them.
 
Chop the leaves finely and pack them into ice cube trays.
 
Cover them with olive oil or water and freeze.
 
These cubes are perfect to toss into soups, sauces, or sautés.
 
You can also blend the leaves into a paste with a little oil and freeze that paste in small jars.
 
This paste lets you use lemon basil leaves even in the middle of winter with ease.
 

3. Dry Them in a Dehydrator

Drying is another option, though the flavor will be less vibrant than fresh.
 
To dry lemon basil leaves, spread them out in a single layer in a dehydrator.
 
Set it on low and wait until the leaves are brittle and crumble easily.
 
Store the dried leaves in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place.
 
While dried leaves are not great for fresh salads, you can still use them in teas and cooked dishes.
 
This is a good way to use lemon basil leaves if you simply have too many to deal with.
 

So, What To Do With Lemon Basil Leaves?

So, what to do with lemon basil leaves?
 
The truth is that you can use lemon basil leaves in so many ways that you will never get bored.
 
From fresh salads and vibrant pestos to refreshing drinks and lovely desserts, this herb is a star.
 
You can use lemon basil leaves in everything from savory marinades to sweet syrups.
 
We have shown you how to use lemon basil leaves in salads, pasta, drinks, and desserts.
 
We have also shared how to store them so you can enjoy them all season long.
 
Now that you know what to do with lemon basil leaves, it’s time to get into the kitchen and experiment.
 
You will be amazed at how much flavor these little green leaves can add to your meals.
 
So next time you see this fragrant herb at the market, grab a big bunch and have fun.
 
Your tastebuds will thank you for every single dish you create.