Can I Freeze Fresh Basil Leaves?

Freezer Preparation

• Before freezing basil, thoroughly wash it in a colander or strainer under cold running water. Remove the stems and any dark, torn or yellow leaves.

Ice Cube Method

• Freezing basil in individual ice cubes makes it easy to access small amounts and add them to recipes. Fill a standard ice cube tray with water and add about a teaspoon of fresh basil leaves to each cube section. You can use chopped basil or whole leaves. After the cubes are frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable bag. When a recipe with liquids calls for fresh basil, just pop an ice cube into it and let the basil emerge as the ice melts.

Processed Frozen Basil

• Put a bunch of prepared basil leaves into the bowl of a food processor fitted with the metal chopping blade. Add enough olive or vegetable oil to make a paste and process until smooth. Put the paste into zipper locked freezer bags, distribute it evenly, remove the excess air and seal. Lay the bag flat on the bottom of the freezer so the mixture forms a sheet when frozen. To use the basil for recipes, break off a chunk of the sheet and mix it with the rest of the foods. This type of frozen basil is perfect for making freshly made pesto or as an addition to any dish that has liquid in it.

Cookie Sheet Freezing

• Line a cookie or baking sheet with waxed or parchment paper. Carefully place individual basil leaves on it, making sure the leaves do not touch. When the leaves are thoroughly frozen, place them into a freezer-safe bag with a zipper closing and freeze. Remove as many leaves as you need for recipes, reseal the bag and quickly return it to the freezer.

Considerations

• No matter which freezing method you choose, the basil will always lack the pungent aroma and flavor of fresh basil. Although the leaves may look vibrantly green when they are frozen, they will wilt and turn dark upon defrosting. Frozen basil is fine for cooking but should not be used in salads or other fresh dishes.