What Can You Do With Lemon Basil

You can do a lot with lemon basil, from tossing it into fresh salads to steeping it in hot tea.
 
Lemon basil is one of those magical herbs that bridges the gap between sweet and savory, making it a versatile staple in any kitchen.
 
If you’ve ever wondered what can you do with lemon basil beyond the usual garnish, you’re in for a treat because this herb packs a citrusy punch that transforms ordinary dishes.
 
In this post, we’ll explore creative ways to use lemon basil, cover its standout flavor profile, and share practical tips for cooking and storing it.
 
Let’s dig into the wonderful world of lemon basil and see how it can brighten up your meals.
 

What Can You Do With Lemon Basil in Everyday Cooking?

The short answer is: you can do nearly anything with lemon basil that you’d do with sweet basil, but with a zesty twist.
 
Lemon basil works beautifully in both hot and cold preparations, and its lemony aroma shines when handled gently.
 
Because the leaves are tender and smaller than standard basil, they’re perfect for quick cooking methods and raw applications alike.
 
Here are the most rewarding ways to put lemon basil to work in your kitchen.
 

1. Infuse Oils and Vinegars

One of the easiest things you can do with lemon basil is to create a flavored oil or vinegar that lasts for weeks.
 
Add a generous handful of lemon basil leaves to a bottle of olive oil and let it sit for a week to get a fragrant, citrusy dressing base.
 
You can also do the same with white wine vinegar to make a bright salad dressing.
 
The lemon basil infuses the liquid with its essential oils, giving you a gourmet pantry staple.
 
This is a simple lemon basil idea that requires zero cooking and pays off big.
 

2. Toss It Into Salads and Slaws

Raw lemon basil adds a fresh, lemony zing to any salad without needing actual lemon juice.
 
Chop the leaves finely and mix them into a green salad, a cucumber salad, or even a crunchy slaw.
 
You can also blend lemon basil into a creamy dressing for a unique twist on coleslaw.
 
What can you do with lemon basil in a salad?
 
Use it as a substitute for mint or regular basil in any recipe.
 
The leaves are tender enough to eat raw, and their citrus notes elevate simple vegetables instantly.
 

3. Make a Vibrant Pesto

Lemon basil pesto is a game-changer for pasta, sandwiches, and grilled meats.
 
Swap out traditional sweet basil for lemon basil in your usual pesto recipe for a brighter, more aromatic sauce.
 
Combine lemon basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a food processor.
 
The result is a pesto that tastes like summer in a bowl, with a natural citrus lift.
 
This is one of the most delicious things you can do with lemon basil, and it only takes five minutes.
 

Creative Lemon Basil Ideas for Drinks and Desserts

Lemon basil isn’t just for savory dishes, it shines in beverages and sweets too.
 
Its lemony, slightly anise-like flavor pairs wonderfully with fruits, honey, and even chocolate.
 
Here are some refreshing ways to use lemon basil that will impress your guests.
 

1. Steep Lemon Basil Tea

You can make a calming, caffeine-free tea by steeping fresh lemon basil leaves in hot water.
 
Add a spoonful of honey and a slice of lemon for a soothing drink that aids digestion.
 
This is a wonderful thing you can do with lemon basil when you want a break from regular tea or coffee.
 
You can also chill the tea and serve it over ice with mint for a summer cooler.
 
The lemony scent fills your kitchen, and the taste is gentle yet refreshing.
 

2. Cocktail and Mocktail Garnish

Muddle lemon basil leaves into your favorite cocktail or mocktail for a burst of citrus.
 
It works exceptionally well in lemonades, mojitos, and gin-based drinks.
 
Simply slap a few leaves between your palms to release their oils, then drop them into your glass.
 
You can also freeze lemon basil leaves in ice cubes to add a pretty, flavorful touch to any beverage.
 
These little lemon basil ideas are simple yet make drinks taste like they came from a fancy bar.
 

3. Bake It Into Shortbread or Sorbet

Yes, you can use lemon basil in desserts, and it’s unexpectedly delightful.
 
Finely chop lemon basil leaves and fold them into a classic shortbread dough for a herby, citrusy cookie.
 
Or steep the leaves in warm sugar syrup, then use that syrup to make a homemade sorbet.
 
The herb’s lemon notes cut through sweetness, giving desserts a sophisticated edge.
 
What can you do with lemon basil in baking?
 
Experiment by replacing half the lemon zest in a recipe with chopped lemon basil leaves.
 

How to Store and Preserve Lemon Basil

To get the most out of your lemon basil, proper storage is key.
 
Fresh lemon basil wilts quickly, so you’ll want to handle it with care.
 
Here are the best ways to keep your lemon basil fresh and flavorful.
 

1. Fridge Storage with a Damp Paper Towel

Wrap unwashed lemon basil leaves loosely in a slightly damp paper towel.
 
Place the bundle in a zip-top bag and store it in the crisper drawer of your fridge.
 
This method keeps the leaves fresh for up to a week without turning them mushy.
 
Just make sure the towel stays barely moist, not soaking wet.
 
This is one of the easiest things you can do with lemon basil to extend its shelf life.
 

2. Freeze in Oil or Water

Freezing is a great long-term solution for lemon basil.
 
Chop the leaves and place them into ice cube trays, then cover them with olive oil or water.
 
Once frozen, pop the cubes into a freezer bag and use them as needed.
 
The oil cubes are perfect for sautéing, while water cubes can be dropped into soups and stews.
 
This preserves the lemon basil flavor for months, so you always have some on hand.
 

3. Dry It for Spice Blends

While drying changes the texture, it still captures plenty of lemon basil’s aroma.
 
Hang small bunches upside down in a dry, dark place for about a week.
 
Once completely dry, crumble the leaves and store them in an airtight jar.
 
Dried lemon basil works well in spice rubs, herb butters, and marinades.
 
It’s a practical answer to what can you do with lemon basil when you have a huge harvest.
 

So, What Can You Do with Lemon Basil?

You can do a ton with lemon basil, from simple salads to gourmet desserts and refreshing drinks.
 
What can you do with lemon basil is only limited by your imagination, but the classics never fail.
 
Whether you’re infusing oils, making pesto, or steeping tea, lemon basil adds a unique citrus twist that sweet basil just can’t match.
 
Start with the ideas above, and soon you’ll be finding new ways to use lemon basil in everything you cook.
 
The next time you spot lemon basil at the market, grab a bunch and get creative.
 
Your taste buds will thank you.