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What to make with leftover basil is easier than you think, and you likely have the answer in your kitchen right now.
Leftover basil is a gift that keeps on giving, and there are so many delicious ways to use it up before it wilts.
If you’ve ever stared at a bunch of leftover basil wondering what to make, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’ll explore the best recipes for leftover basil, from quick sauces to elegant garnishes, so nothing goes to waste.
Let’s dive into the wonderful world of making the most out of that fragrant herb.
Why Leftover Basil Deserves a Second Life
Leftover basil is far too precious to toss, and this herb brings a fresh, peppery sweetness that can transform simple dishes into something spectacular.
When you know what to make with leftover basil, you unlock endless culinary creativity.
This leafy green is delicate, so it doesn’t last long in the fridge, making it essential to use it quickly.
Rather than watching it turn brown, let’s make the most of this aromatic herb.
1. Basil Pesto for Days
The most classic answer to what to make with leftover basil is, without a doubt, pesto.
This vibrant sauce freezes beautifully, so you can preserve leftover basil for months.
Simply blend your leftover basil with garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and good olive oil.
You can toss this with pasta, spread it on sandwiches, or dollop it over grilled chicken.
Make a big batch of pesto using leftover basil and you’ll thank yourself on a busy weeknight.
2. Basil-Infused Olive Oil
Another brilliant way to use leftover basil is to infuse olive oil with its flavor.
This is a low-effort, high-reward method for leftover basil that adds instant gourmet flair.
Gently heat your leftover basil with olive oil, then let it cool and strain.
Drizzle this over salads, roasted veggies, or use it as a dipping oil for crusty bread.
When you make basil oil, you preserve leftover basil’s essence in a practical, versatile form.
3. Herb-Infused Butter
If you’re still asking what to make with leftover basil, try compound butter.
Mix softened butter with finely chopped leftover basil, a squeeze of lemon, and salt.
This flavored butter is incredible on corn on the cob, steak, or melted over steamed rice.
You can roll the butter into a log and freeze it to have leftover basil ready for later.
It’s an easy way to make leftover basil the star of any meal.
Quick and Easy Meals to Make with Leftover Basil
You don’t need a complex recipe to use leftover basil; this herb can be a simple, last-minute addition.
Here are some fast dinners that showcase exactly what to make with leftover basil.
1. Classic Margherita Pizza
What to make with leftover basil? A margherita pizza is a top contender.
Spread tomato sauce over pizza dough, add fresh mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.
Right before serving, scatter a handful of fresh leftover basil leaves on top.
The heat will slightly wilt the basil, releasing its incredible aroma.
This is possibly the tastiest way to use up leftover basil in under 20 minutes.
2. Caprese Salad Deluxe
A caprese salad is a fantastic answer when you have leftover basil.
Layer juicy tomato slices with fresh mozzarella and large pieces of leftover basil.
Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a pinch of sea salt.
This salad is light, refreshing, and showcases leftover basil beautifully.
You can also chop the leftover basil and mix it into the dressing for extra flavor.
3. Pasta with Lemon and Basil
A simple pasta dish is another answer for what to make with leftover basil.
Cook your favorite pasta, then toss it with olive oil, lemon zest, and juice.
Stir in a generous amount of sliced leftover basil just before serving.
The bright lemon pairs perfectly with the sweet, herbal notes of the leftover basil.
This meal is light, satisfying, and comes together in the time it takes to boil water.
Creative Ways to Store and Preserve Leftover Basil
You can make leftover basil last longer by using smart storage tricks.
These methods give you more time to figure out what to make with leftover basil.
1. Freeze Whole or Chopped Leaves
Freezing is a great way to save leftover basil for future recipes.
You can freeze whole leaves, or chop them and freeze them in an ice cube tray.
Fill the tray sections with leftover basil and top with water or olive oil.
Pop out the cubes and store them in a bag, so you have leftover basil ready anytime.
The texture will be soft, but it’s perfect for soups, stews, and sauces.
2. Layering in the Fridge
Proper storage in the fridge can keep leftover basil fresh for over a week.
Place the leftover basil stems in a glass of water like a bouquet of flowers.
Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and keep it on the counter.
This keeps the leftover basil hydrated and prevents it from browning quickly.
With this method, you can buy leftover basil in bulk and enjoy it all week.
3. Make Basil Salt
For a unique twist on what to make with leftover basil, try basil salt.
Blend coarse sea salt with dry or fresh leftover basil until finely ground.
Spread the mix on a baking sheet and let it dry completely.
Use this herby salt to season everything from eggs to roasted potatoes.
It’s a gourmet touch that ensures not a single leaf of your leftover basil goes unused.
So, What to Make with Leftover Basil?
So, what to make with leftover basil? The options are truly endless.
Leftover basil can be the key to making pesto, flavored oils, butters, pizzas, salads, and more.
With these ideas, you’ll never waste a single leaf of leftover basil again.
So the next time you have leftover basil, you know exactly what to make with it.
Start with a simple pesto or a caprese salad today.