What To Do With Italian Basil

What to do with Italian basil is a question every home cook faces when that fragrant bundle from the market starts to wilt.
 
Italian basil is one of the most rewarding herbs you can grow or buy, and there are so many delicious ways to use it up.
 
From classic pesto to simple salads and even frozen treats, Italian basil can transform your cooking.
 
In this post, we’ll explore what to do with Italian basil, covering everything from storage tips to mouth-watering recipes.
 
Let’s dive into the wonderful world of this aromatic herb.
 

What to Do with Italian Basil: The Best Ways to Use It

The best way to answer what to do with Italian basil is to start with the most iconic use: making fresh pesto.
 
Pesto is where Italian basil truly shines, and it’s a fantastic way to use a large harvest.
 
But Italian basil isn’t just for pesto, it’s incredibly versatile in salads, pastas, and even drinks.
 
Here are the top methods for using Italian basil that will make you fall in love with it all over again.
 

1. Make a Classic Pesto with Italian Basil

When you think about what to do with Italian basil, pesto is usually the first answer that comes to mind.
 
This vibrant sauce uses fresh Italian basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan, and olive oil blended into a rich paste.
 
You can toss it with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a marinade for chicken.
 
The key is to use the freshest Italian basil you can find, as the flavor is unmatched.
 
A food processor makes this a five-minute job, and you can freeze extra pesto in ice cube trays.
 
That way, you always have a taste of summer ready to go.
 

2. Add Italian Basil to Fresh Salads

Another brilliant answer to what to do with Italian basil is to add whole leaves to your salads.
 
Italians do this all the time, and it adds a peppery, sweet kick that’s simply divine.
 
Try it in a classic Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic.
 
The combination of Italian basil with tomatoes is a match made in heaven.
 
You can also tear the leaves into a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
 
This is one of the easiest ways to use Italian basil without any cooking involved.
 

3. Infuse Olive Oil with Italian Basil

If you’re wondering what to do with Italian basil in bulk, infusing olive oil is a smart move.
 
Gently warm olive oil with fresh Italian basil leaves to release their aromatic oils.
 
Let it cool, then strain and store it in a bottle for a beautiful, flavorful finishing oil.
 
This basil oil is perfect for drizzling over grilled vegetables, pasta, or even popcorn.
 
You’ll get a concentrated burst of Italian basil flavor that elevates any dish.
 
It’s also a great homemade gift for fellow food lovers.
 

4. Use Italian Basil in Sauces and Soups

Italian basil is a powerhouse in cooked dishes, so what to do with Italian basil in your dinner rotation is easy.
 
Add a handful of chopped Italian basil to a simple tomato sauce for a fresh, herby depth.
 
It also works wonders in minestrone soup, giving it a bright, final touch before serving.
 
Stir in the Italian basil at the end to preserve its vibrant color and flavor.
 
You can even blend it into a creamy zucchini or pea soup for a lovely green hue.
 
This is a comforting and practical use for your Italian basil supply.
 

How to Store Italian Basil for Maximum Freshness

Part of knowing what to do with Italian basil is learning how to keep it fresh for longer.
 
Proper storage is key to making sure you get the most out of every leaf.
 
Here are the best ways to preserve this delicate herb.
 

1. The Bouquet Method for Italian Basil

Treat fresh Italian basil like a bouquet of flowers to keep it crisp for up to a week.
 
Trim the stems and place the bunch in a glass of water, just covering the cut ends.
 
Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and store it on your countertop, not the fridge.
 
Cold air can cause the Italian basil leaves to turn black and lose their flavor quickly.
 
This method mimics how the plant grows, keeping it hydrated and happy.
 
The result is fresh, perky Italian basil whenever you need it.
 

2. Freezing Italian Basil Leaves

Another answer to what to do with Italian basil is to freeze it for future use.
 
Wash and dry the leaves, then chop them finely or leave them whole.
 
You can pack them into ice cube trays with a little water or olive oil.
 
Once frozen, pop the cubes out and store them in a freezer bag.
 
This is perfect for cooking, as the Italian basil will retain most of its aroma.
 
While not great for fresh salads, frozen Italian basil works beautifully in sauces.
 

3. Make Italian Basil Pesto for the Freezer

Since pesto is such a great use for Italian basil, it’s also the best way to freeze it.
 
Make a big batch of pesto and spoon it into small jars or freezer bags.
 
Press out the excess air and flatten the bags for easy stacking.
 
When you thaw it, you’ll have a taste of freshness that’s almost as good as new.
 
This solves the problem of what to do with Italian basil when you have too much.
 
It’s a time-saving trick that ensures nothing goes to waste.
 

Step-by-Step: How to Make the Perfect Italian Basil Pesto

If you want a clear guide on what to do with Italian basil, follow this foolproof recipe.
 
You’ll need about two cups of packed fresh Italian basil leaves.
 
Add them to your blender with a half cup of grated parmesan cheese and a third cup of pine nuts.
 
Add two peeled garlic cloves and a pinch of salt to the mix.
 
While blending, slowly stream in a half cup of extra-virgin olive oil.
 
Blend just until smooth, but still slightly chunky for texture.
 
Taste and adjust with more salt or Italian basil if needed.
 
This simple recipe is the ultimate answer to what to do with Italian basil.
 

So, What to Do with Italian Basil Finally?

What to do with Italian basil is all about getting creative and enjoying its fresh, aromatic flavors.
 
From the classic pesto to simple salads and infused oils, there’s no shortage of uses.
 
You can also store it properly to make it last, or freeze it for those colder months.
 
So, what to do with Italian basil is to use it generously in any dish that needs a burst of freshness.
 
Don’t be shy, add it to your pasta, your pizza, and even your lemonade.
 
The possibilities are endless, and the flavor payoff is huge.
 
Hope this guide has shown you exactly what to do with Italian basil so you never waste a leaf again.