What To Do With Dried Basil

Dried basil is one of those pantry staples you can use in countless ways to bring big flavor to your everyday cooking.
 
If you’ve got a jar of dried basil sitting there and you’re not sure what to do with dried basil beyond sprinkling it on pizza, you’re in the right place.
 
There’s a whole world of possibilities for dried basil that goes way beyond the obvious, and I’m here to help you unlock them.
 
This post will cover the best ways to use dried basil, how to get the most flavor out of it, and tips for storing it so it lasts.
 
Let’s dive into the many ways you can put that jar of dried basil to work.
 

Why Dried Basil Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen

Dried basil is a concentrated powerhouse of flavor, and it shines when you know how to handle it right.
 
Unlike fresh basil, which is bright and peppery, dried basil offers a more mellow, slightly sweet, and earthy taste that deepens as it cooks.
 
The best thing about dried basil is its convenience, because it’s always ready when you need a quick flavor boost.
 
Here’s why you should love using dried basil and how to make it work for you.
 

1. Dried Basil Adds Instant Depth to Sauces

If you’re wondering what to do with dried basil, the first answer is always sauces, and tomato-based ones especially.
 
Toss a teaspoon of dried basil into your marinara, pizza sauce, or even a simple pasta sauce, and you’ll get that classic Italian herb flavor.
 
The key is to add dried basil early in the cooking process so it has time to rehydrate and release its oils.
 
This is where dried basil really shines because it infuses the whole sauce with a warm, aromatic flavor that fresh basil just can’t match.
 
You can also stir dried basil into creamy alfredo or a quick pan sauce for chicken to give it a savory herbaceous kick.
 

2. Use Dried Basil to Season Soups and Stews

Soups and stews are another fantastic place for dried basil, and it works wonders in both vegetable and bean-based dishes.
 
Add a spoonful of dried basil to your minestrone, lentil soup, or even a hearty beef stew as it simmers.
 
Since soups have a lot of liquid, the dried basil will absorb the broth and plump up, distributing its flavor evenly throughout.
 
This is a simple way to use dried basil to make your soups taste like they’ve been simmering for hours.
 
Don’t forget to sprinkle some dried basil into your homemade chicken noodle soup for that extra layer of comfort.
 

3. Make a Savory Herb Rub with Dried Basil

One of the best things to do with dried basil is to combine it into a dry rub for meats and roasted vegetables.
 
Mix dried basil with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and maybe some oregano to create a versatile seasoning blend.
 
Rub this mixture onto chicken thighs, pork chops, or even a whole chicken before roasting for a deliciously herby crust.
 
You can also use the rub on vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or potatoes before tossing them in the oven.
 
Using dried basil in a rub is a great way to add flavor without any extra fat or liquid.
 

Creative Ways to Use Dried Basil for Everyday Meals

Beyond the classics, there are some really creative ways to use dried basil that you might not have thought about.
 
These ideas are perfect for when you want to answer “what to do with dried basil” in a new and exciting way.
 
Let’s explore some unique applications that will make you reach for that little jar more often.
 

1. Infuse Olive Oil with Dried Basil

A simple and elegant way to use dried basil is to create a basil-infused olive oil for dipping bread or drizzling.
 
Warm a cup of olive oil in a saucepan over low heat and add a couple of tablespoons of dried basil.
 
Let it steep for about 10 minutes without boiling, then let it cool and strain out the dried basil leaves.
 
You’ll have a beautifully fragrant oil that tastes amazing with crusty bread, on salads, or over grilled fish.
 
This is a fantastic way to use dried basil because it draws out the herb’s flavor into a luxurious finishing touch.
 

2. Upgrade Your Baking with Dried Basil

Hear me out, dried basil in baked goods is a total game changer, especially in savory breads and crackers.
 
Add a teaspoon of dried basil to your focaccia dough, dinner rolls, or even cheesy herb biscuits for a subtle herby note.
 
You can also mix dried basil into a homemade cracker dough with some parmesan and black pepper for a delicious snack.
 
Using dried basil in baking gives your breads a wonderful aroma and an earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with soups and salads.
 
Don’t be afraid to experiment, because roasted vegetables and dried basil together in a savory tart are also phenomenal.
 

3. Brighten Up Salad Dressings and Marinades

Whisking dried basil into your salad dressings is a quick and easy way to use it without any extra effort.
 
Combine dried basil with olive oil, red wine vinegar, a little dijon mustard, and honey for a quick vinaigrette.
 
You can also add dried basil to your favorite marinade for chicken, shrimp, or firm tofu to infuse them with flavor.
 
The dried basil will soften as it sits in the acid, blending beautifully with the other ingredients.
 
This is one of the simplest things to do with dried basil, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner upgrade.
 

Simple Tips to Get the Most Out of Dried Basil

Knowing what to do with dried basil also means understanding how to use it properly so it doesn’t taste powdery or flat.
 
There are a few key tricks that make a big difference when cooking with this dried herb.
 
Follow these simple tips to ensure every dish you add dried basil to tastes amazing.
 

1. Rehydrate Your Dried Basil First

It’s always a good idea to rehydrate dried basil before adding it to a dish that isn’t very wet.
 
You can do this by soaking it in a small bowl with a little warm water, lemon juice, or even some broth for a few minutes.
 
This softens the leaves and releases the flavor better than just sprinkling it on dry food.
 
So when you’re using dried basil in a dry rub or on top of a finished dish, consider this step first.
 
It will make all the difference in the texture and taste of your meal.
 

2. Remember, Dried Basil is Stronger Than You Think

A common mistake is using too much dried basil, thinking it’s as mild as fresh.
 
Dried basil is actually more concentrated, so you should generally use a third of the amount of fresh basil called for.
 
For example, if a recipe asks for one tablespoon of fresh basil, you’ll only need one teaspoon of dried basil.
 
Start with a little less and add more to taste, because you can always add but you can’t take away.
 
This way, your dried basil will enhance the dish without overwhelming everything else.
 

3. Store It Properly for Maximum Freshness

To keep your dried basil potent and ready to use, you need to store it correctly.
 
Keep the container in a cool, dark, and dry place, like a cabinet away from the stove and sunlight.
 
Avoid storing it near heat or humidity, which will cause it to lose its flavor and color much faster.
 
Check your dried basil every few months, and if it loses its aroma or looks brown, it’s time to replace it.
 
Properly stored, dried basil can last for about a year, giving you plenty of opportunities to use it.
 

What To Do With Dried Basil for Snacks and Appetizers

When you have guests coming over, you can absolutely use dried basil for some impressive snacks and appetizers.
 
It’s all about thinking outside the box and using that herb to add a flavorful twist to familiar favorites.
 
Let’s look at some crowd-pleasing ways to use dried basil at your next gathering.
 

1. Sprinkle Over Roasted Nuts

A super quick way to use dried basil is to toss it with warm roasted nuts for a savory snack.
 
After roasting almonds, cashews, or pecans, toss them with a little olive oil, sea salt, and a good pinch of dried basil.
 
The residual heat from the nuts will toast the dried basil slightly, making it incredibly aromatic.
 
This is a simple and sophisticated appetizer that your guests will love.
 
It’s a great reason to figure out what to do with dried basil beyond just pasta sauce.
 

2. Mix Into Softened Butter or Cream Cheese

Whipping up a savory butter or spread is another excellent way to use dried basil.
 
Soften some butter and mix in a teaspoon of dried basil, a clove of minced garlic, and a pinch of salt.
 
This compound butter is amazing on roasted corn, garlic bread, or over a steak.
 
Alternatively, mix dried basil into softened cream cheese with some chives and black pepper for a tasty bagel spread.
 
These delicious spreads are one of the easiest things to do with dried basil for instant flavor.
 

3. Season Your Popcorn

Popcorn is a surprising but delicious vehicle for dried basil, and it’s such a fun way to use it.
 
After popping your popcorn, melt some butter and mix it with dried basil, garlic powder, and parmesan cheese.
 
Toss the popcorn in the mixture until every kernel is coated with that herby, buttery goodness.
 
You’ll never look at plain popcorn the same way again once you try this.
 
So the next time you are wondering what to do with dried basil, just think about your snack drawer.
 

So, What Should You Do With Dried Basil?

Dried basil is an incredibly versatile and essential herb that can transform your cooking in so many simple ways.
 
You now know what to do with dried basil, from enhancing sauces and soups to creating flavorful rubs and dressings.
 
It’s a convenient way to add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your meals any day of the week.
 
So don’t let that jar collect dust, start experimenting and enjoy all the amazing things dried basil can bring to your table.
 
Get creative with it and your taste buds will thank you.