Few herbs exude the delightful fragrance and vibrant taste of freshly picked basil during the summer season. This guide will provide all the information you need to prep, store, and cook basil to maximize its flavor and preserve its texture.

A close-up of a green basil plant in bloom. A small bee is perched on the basil flower, gathering nectar. The basil leaves are lush and vibrant, with the white and green flower cluster in the center. The background is slightly blurred, highlighting the basil plant.
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How To Select Green Basil

Basil is typically available year-round at supermarkets, but it is in season and most flavorful during the summer months. If you can’t grow herbs at home, you can purchase basil at your local farmer’s market or grocery store. 

A lush basil plant with abundant green leaves growing in a garden against a brick wall. The leaves are bright and healthy, with some stem tips showing small clusters of buds. The garden bed also has other foliage around the basil plant.
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When purchasing fresh basil, look for bright green basil free of black or brown spots, wilted leaves, or mushy spots. The basil should be fragrant and appear healthy.

It’s best to buy basil plants in your produce section, or basil plant stems with the leaves packaged in a special plastic herb container. 

How To Properly Clean Fresh Basil

To clean your basil prior to storage, run the leaves under cool water, removing any visible dirt or debris. If you purchased your basil at the store rather than picking it from your garden, remove any rubber bands, twist ties, or packaging that came with it before you wash it. 

You can remove excess moisture by patting it with a paper towel and then letting it dry on a kitchen towel on your counter.  Allowing it to dry after washing helps keep it fresh longer. 

green basil that was washed then patted dry with paper towels on a kitchen towel

Storing Fresh Basil

Basil is a delicate herb that will wilt quickly if not properly stored. There are several ways to store basil to preserve its flavor, texture, and life.

The first option is to store basil in a glass. Submerge the base of the basil bunch in a glass half-filled with water. Store the basil leaves on a kitchen counter away from the oven and other sources of heat. Be sure to avoid direct sunlight when using this method. The basil leaves will be kept for four to five days.

green basil in a glass jar of water

The second option is to store basil wrapped in a paper towel inside an airtight container. Wash and dry the basil, wrap it in dry paper towels, add it to the container, and store it in the fridge. 

green basil in a container with paper towel wrapped around the plants

The third option is to dry your basil leaves. You can dehydrate them by placing them on a sheet tray in your oven at the lowest possible temperature or using a food dehydrator. Once the basil is fully dried, store it in an airtight container, such as a jar or glass container with a locking lid. 

Close-up of a lush basil plant with vibrant green leaves. The leaves are broad and smooth, and some small flower buds are visible among the foliage. The image captures the fresh and healthy appearance of the plant.
Image Credit: Intentional Hospitality

Freezing Fresh Basil

Frozen basil is not as fragrant or flavorful as fresh or dried basil. However, it can still add delicious flavor to your meals.

To freeze fresh basil, first chop the basil. Then, fill the individual compartments of an ice cube tray with the chopped basil. Pour enough cold water over top to cover the herbs, and then move the tray to the freezer. For the best flavor, use the frozen basil within four to six months.

thai basil in ice cube trays and frozen cubes
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Culinary Uses For Fresh Basil

Hardy herbs like rosemary or thyme can withstand higher temperatures and longer cooking times, while delicate herbs like basil are best added to the dishes at the very end of preparation.

A lush basil plant with vibrant green leaves growing in a garden. The plant appears healthy and abundant, with numerous broad leaves and small buds. The background shows more greenery and parts of a brick structure.
Image Credit: Intentional Hospitality

Wonderful Ways To Cook With Green Basil

Basil is popular in a variety of culinary preparations, including Mediterranean and Asian dishes. In Mediterranean cuisines, sweet basil, also known as Italian basil is used. In Asian cuisines, Thai Basil is more commonly used.

Fresh Tomato Soup With Basil

Homemade Tomato Soup Recipe With Fresh Tomatoes

Chickpeas Salad with Pesto and Feta

Easy Marinated Sicilian Olives Recipe
A close-up image of vibrant green basil leaves. The basil plant showcases several broad, smooth, and slightly shiny leaves with prominent veins, and a central cluster of younger, smaller leaves just beginning to unfold.
Image Credit: Intentional Hospitality