What To Do With A Lot Of Basil Leaves

There are so many amazing things you can do with a lot of basil leaves that you might even find yourself growing extra next season.
 
When you have a lot of basil leaves, the first thought is usually pesto, but that’s just the beginning of what this fragrant herb can do for your kitchen.
 
With a big harvest of basil leaves, you can preserve them, cook with them, and even use them in creative ways you haven’t considered yet.
 
In this post, we’ll explore the best solutions for what to do with a lot of basil leaves so none of that fresh flavor goes to waste.
 
Let’s dive into the many ways you can turn that mountain of basil leaves into something delicious and long-lasting.
 

Why You’ll Love Having A Lot Of Basil Leaves

Having a lot of basil leaves is a gift from your garden, but it can also feel a little overwhelming.
 
The good news is that basil leaves are incredibly versatile, and they don’t have to be used all at once.
 
When you know what to do with a lot of basil leaves, you can enjoy that sweet, peppery taste for months after the plant has stopped producing.
 
Basil leaves are packed with essential oils that carry amazing aroma, and they pair beautifully with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and cheese.
 
The key is to act quickly because fresh basil leaves don’t last long once they’re picked.
 
So let’s get into the best strategies for handling your basil leaves bounty.
 

Best Ways To Use A Lot Of Basil Leaves Right Away

If you have a lot of basil leaves and want to use them fresh, you’re in luck because there are plenty of immediate uses.
 
Here are the top ways to enjoy your basil leaves in the next few days.
 

1. Make Classic Pesto In Bulk

Pesto is the classic answer for what to do with a lot of basil leaves, and for good reason.
 
It uses up a massive amount of basil leaves, usually two full cups packed for just one batch.
 
Blend your basil leaves with pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, and good olive oil for a sauce that’s incredible on pasta.
 
You can freeze pesto in ice cube trays and pop out a cube whenever you need a quick flavor boost.
 
This is one of the easiest ways to preserve your basil leaves while creating something delicious.
 

2. Layer Them On Fresh Salads

Don’t just save basil for pasta sauces; your basil leaves make incredible salad greens.
 
Whole basil leaves add a fragrant kick to a simple tomato and mozzarella salad, also known as Caprese.
 
Tear your basil leaves into a green salad with cucumber, olives, and feta, and drizzle with balsamic.
 
When you have a lot of basil leaves, they can actually serve as the main green in a salad rather than just a garnish.
 
It’s a fresh, light way to enjoy your harvest that highlights the basil leaves themselves.
 

3. Infuse Olive Oil Or Vinegar

If you’re looking for what to do with a lot of basil leaves that adds flavor to everything, try infusing oil.
 
Gently heat olive oil and add your basil leaves, letting them steep for a few hours before straining.
 
Basil-infused oil is perfect for dipping bread, drizzling over grilled veggies, or finishing a dish.
 
You can do the same with white wine vinegar for a bright, herbal dressing base.
 
With a lot of basil leaves, you’ll have plenty to make both infusions at the same time.
 

4. Blend Them Into Sauces And Soups

Another great use for a lot of basil leaves is to blend them into any tomato sauce or vegetable soup.
 
Basil leaves wilt quickly and release their flavor into simmering pots, so you can add a huge handful at the end.
 
Whiz a big bunch of basil leaves into a creamy zucchini soup or a simple marinara sauce.
 
The bright green color and sweet aroma will elevate your meal instantly.
 
Using your basil leaves this way is efficient, and it makes your whole kitchen smell amazing.
 

How To Store A Lot Of Basil Leaves For Later

Sometimes you just can’t use all your basil leaves fresh, so you’ll need to store them properly.
 
Storing your basil leaves the right way ensures you get to enjoy them long after harvest.
 
Here’s what to do with a lot of basil leaves so they don’t turn into brown mush.
 

1. Freeze The Whole Basil Leaves

Freezing whole basil leaves is one of the simplest preservation methods for your basil leaves.
 
Wash and dry your basil leaves completely, then lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
 
Freeze them for an hour, then transfer the frozen basil leaves into a zip-top bag.
 
They won’t be great for fresh salads after freezing, but they’re perfect for cooking.
 
This method lets you grab a few basil leaves straight from the freezer whenever you need them.
 

2. Make Basil Ice Cubes

Another fantastic way to handle a lot of basil leaves is to freeze them in water or oil.
 
Chop your basil leaves finely and press them into ice cube trays, then cover with water or melted butter.
 
Once frozen, pop out the cubes and keep them in a freezer bag for easy portioning.
 
Drop a basil cube into soups, stews, or sauces for an instant burst of flavor.
 
This is a brilliant solution for what to do with a lot of basil leaves when you’re short on time.
 

3. Dry Them For Spice Blends

Drying basil leaves is an old-school method that works well if you have a lot of basil leaves.
 
You can air-dry small bunches by hanging them upside down in a dry, dark space.
 
Or use a dehydrator or a low-temperature oven to crisp up the basil leaves quickly.
 
Once completely dry, crumble your basil leaves into an airtight jar.
 
While dried basil leaves won’t have the same fresh kick, they still add great flavor to cooked dishes.
 

Creative Recipes For A Lot Of Basil Leaves

If you’re tired of the usual pesto, there are other creative recipes to handle a lot of basil leaves.
 
These ideas will have you looking for more basil leaves to pick from your garden.
 

1. Basil Butter

Compound butter is a simple, luxurious way to use up your basil leaves.
 
Mix softened butter with finely chopped basil leaves, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lemon.
 
Roll it into a log using plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge.
 
You can slice off a pat of basil butter to melt over steak, corn on the cob, or hot bread.
 
This uses a good amount of basil leaves and stores for weeks in the fridge or months in the freezer.
 

2. Basil Syrup For Drinks

When you have a lot of basil leaves, making a simple syrup is a refreshing twist.
 
Simmer equal parts sugar and water, then add a big handful of basil leaves and steep for 20 minutes.
 
Strain out the basil leaves and bottle the green syrup for lemonades, cocktails, or iced tea.
 
It’s a unique way to use your basil leaves that will impress anyone who tries it.
 

3. Basil-Infused Honey

A lot of basil leaves can also be used to infuse honey for a sweet and savory treat.
 
Gently warm honey in a saucepan, add your basil leaves, and let it rest for a few hours.
 
Remove the basil leaves and keep the honey in a jar for drizzling over cheese or desserts.
 
This is a lesser-known use for basil leaves, but it’s completely delicious.
 

So, What To Do With A Lot Of Basil Leaves?

There are so many things to do with a lot of basil leaves that you’ll never waste a single one.
 
From making giant batches of pesto to freezing basil ice cubes, you have plenty of options for your basil leaves.
 
The best approach is to use a combination of immediate meals and preserved batches.
 
Try making pesto for the fridge, basil butter for the freezer, and a fresh salad for dinner tonight.
 
Now that you know what to do with a lot of basil leaves, you can handle any size harvest with confidence.
 
Go ahead and enjoy every single one of those fragrant, beautiful leaves.