How to Save Basil Leaves

Basil adds distinct Italian flavor to tomato dishes and sauces, making this herb a natural companion for growing amid tomato plants. Its pale green leaves are highly fragrant, releasing scent with the lightest touch. Leaves are harvested throughout the summer, providing the gardener with an abundant supply for culinary use. As fall approaches and cold weather threatens, thoughts turn to preserving basil for the winter.

Garden clippers
Twine or elastics
Glass jar
Ice cube trays

Instructions

- 1
  Harvest basil leaves for winter storage in the morning once dew has dried but before the heat of the day arrives. For the most intense flavor, choose stems that have small buds that have not started to open.
- 2
  Gather basil in small bundles of three to five stems. Tie the stems with garden twine or wrap with an elastic to hold the bundle together.
- 3
  Hang the bundles of basil upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area to dry. Check the bundles daily and turn as necessary to allow all leaves to dry thoroughly. Drying time varies, depending on the size of the bundles, humidity level and temperature, but most dry within five to 10 days.
- 4
  Remove the leaves from the stems once they are completely dry. Leaves and stems should be crisp and brittle. If portions of the leaves or stems are pliable, they require more drying time.
- 5
  Place the dried basil leaves in a glass jar and seal tightly. Store in a dark, dry area free of moisture or humidity.

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Growing Basil