If you’ve got a lot of basil leftover and you’re not sure what to do with it, don’t worry.
There are plenty of quick and easy ways to use up your basil.
From pesto to salads to smoothies, I’ve got you covered.
Keep reading for some of my favorite recipes.
Make pesto
First, you can try making pesto from your leftover basil.
To do this, simply combine the basil with some olive oil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor.
Pulse until everything is combined, then store in an airtight container in the fridge.
You can use this for pasta, pizza, or even sandwiches.
Add it to salads
Another great way to use up your leftover basil is by adding it to salads.
You can either mix it in with the other salad ingredients or use it as a topping.
It’s a great way to add flavor and freshness to any salad.
Make smoothies
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to use up your leftover basil, try making smoothies.
The steps are simple.
First, blend the basil with some milk, yogurt, or fruit juice.
Then, blend in any other desired ingredients.
You can even add it to green smoothies for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
Make basil oil
Have you ever thought about making your own basil oil? It’s really easy to do, and it’s a great way to use up leftover basil.
Simply combine the basil with some olive oil in a blender or food processor, then strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge, and use as you would regular olive oil.
Make pesto chicken
Making a pesto chicken dish is a great way to use up your leftover basil.
It’s simple to do, and it’s a great way to get a healthy and delicious meal on the table.
Start by coating some chicken breasts in pesto.
Then, cook them in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through.
Serve with your favorite sides.
Add it to pasta
You can also add your leftover basil to pasta dishes.
Simply cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
Add the cooked pasta back to the pot and stir in your desired amount of pesto.
You can also try adding other ingredients like tomatoes or mushrooms for extra flavor.
I really like this because it’s a quick and easy way to get a delicious and healthy meal.
Make pesto cheese bread
Finally, you can try making pesto cheese bread.
This is a great way to use up your leftover basil, and it’s also really delicious.
Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F.
Then, combine the basil, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts in a food processor.
Pulse until everything is combined.
Spread the mixture over a slice of bread, then bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
It’s a great quick and easy snack or appetizer.
What is the herb basil good for?
Basil is good for a lot of things.
It is a great herb to have on hand for adding flavor to food, and it also has some health benefits.
Basil can help lower blood pressure, and it is also a natural antibiotic.
So if you are looking for a way to add flavor to your food and get some health benefits too, give basil a try (source).
Can basil leaves be eaten raw?
Yes, you can eat basil leaves raw.
They have a slightly spicy taste and are a good source of vitamins A and C.
Or you can add them to a salad or pesto (source).
What are the most common uses for basil?
Basil is a common herb that has many purposes.
It can be used in both food and drink, and it has a variety of different flavors.
Some of the most common uses for basil include adding it to pasta dishes, making pesto sauce, and flavoring iced tea.
Basil is also a popular ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes.
How do you cook with basil?
You can cook basil with many different foods.
For example, you can add it to pasta sauce, or put it in a salad.
Basil is also good when you’re cooking chicken or fish.
You can either chop the basil up and add it to the food while it’s cooking, or you can put the herb on top of the dish when it’s finished.
Either way, your food will taste great.
Can you use basil for tea?
Yes, you can use basil for tea.
It has a sweet, spicy flavor that goes well with honey.
You can also add lemon or mint to your tea if you like.
Basil tea is a great way to relax after a long day.
Is basil good for high blood pressure?
Yes, it may help to lower blood pressure.
Basil contains compounds that relax the muscles surrounding blood vessels, which can lead to a decrease in blood pressure.
Additionally, basil is a good source of potassium, which also helps to lower blood pressure.
Adding basil to your diet may help you maintain healthy blood pressure (source).
How do you cook basil leaves?
To cook basil leaves, you first need to remove the stem.
Then, you can either fry them in a little oil or add them to a dish while it’s cooking.
Basil leaves are delicious in pasta dishes, soups, and salads.
What foods go well with basil?
Basil is a versatile herb that can be used in many different dishes.
It goes well with both savory and sweet flavors, making it an ideal addition to many meals.
Some of the most popular foods to pair with basil include:
- Pesto – This classic Italian sauce is made with basil, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts. It can be used on pasta, pizza, or as a condiment for sandwiches.
- Tomato dishes – Whether it’s a simple Caprese salad or a hearty Italian dish, tomatoes are a natural partner for basil.
- Chicken – Basil is a great addition to chicken dishes, whether it’s used in a marinade, as a topping, or stirred into the sauce.
- Fruit – Basil is also a great addition to fruit salads or dishes with sweet flavors. Try pairing it with strawberries, pineapple, or mango for a delicious and refreshing taste.
Is basil a superfood?
Yes, basil is a superfood.
It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that make it great for your health.
Basil is also a good source of vitamin K, which is important for healthy bones.
Add basil to your next meal and enjoy its amazing health benefits (source).
Is drinking basil water good for you?
Basil water is a refreshing drink that has many health benefits.
It can help to improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and fight against infection.
Drinking basil water regularly can help keep you healthy and looking your best.
Can you refrigerate basil leaves?
The answer to this question is yes, you can refrigerate basil leaves.
When stored in the fridge, basil leaves will last for about a week.
Make sure to wrap them in a damp paper towel before placing them in the fridge.
This will help keep them fresh.
What is the difference between holy basil and basil?
The difference between holy basil and basil is that holy basil has a more potent flavor and is considered to be more medicinal.
Basil is more commonly used in cooking, while holy basil is often taken as a supplement or used in aromatherapy.
Holy basil is also slightly more expensive than regular basil.
Conclusion
So, those are some of my favorite ways to use up leftover basil.
As you can see, there are plenty of options, so you never have to worry about what to do with your leftover basil.
Be sure to try out some of these recipes and see which ones you like best.