How to Store Basil to Maximize Its Shelf Life

Known for its herbally sweet flavor and peppery undertones, basil can instantly elevate the most basic dishes. It's a delicate herb—and knowing how to store basil is important so you can keep it fresh for longer to enjoy it in pesto, as a garnish for pasta, soups, and salads—even in desserts.  We spoke with culinary experts about the best basil storage and got their tips for prolonging its shelf life.

Start With the Freshest Basil

The best way to keep basil fresh for longer is to start with the freshest basil you can find. When shopping for basil at the grocery store or farmers market, look for vibrant, green leaves without blemishes or dark spots, says Bryan Quoc Le, Ph.D., a food scientist and author of 150 Food Science Questions Answered. Make sure the leaves are smooth and whole. Fresh basil should also emit a strong yet pleasant herbal scent with some spicy citrus notes.

Where to Store Basil

Basil is a tropical herb and is highly susceptible to cold temperatures, says Le. This is due to the composition of its cell membranes, which contain a rich amount of oils and fats. When basil is exposed to cooler temperatures, these oils and fats cause damage to the leaf tissues. "Cold storage at the grocery store accelerates this process," says Le. That's also the reason why it is not recommended to store basil in the refrigerator at home. Instead, here's how to maintain its freshness:

Kitchen counter: Basil is best kept on the counter at room temperature from 50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, with 55 degrees being the optimal storage temperature, says Le.

Humid conditions: Basil also thrives in 90 to 95 percent relative humidity storage, he adds. You can increase the humidity in the air surrounding the herbs by storing stems in water—or by loosely covering basil with a non-sealed covering.

How to Store Basil

There are several ways to prepare basil for storage:

• One method is to put it in a container and place a dry towel on the bottom and a slightly moist towel on top, says David Lazer Benstock, executive chef and owner of IL Ritorno in St. Petersburg, Florida. This is good if you have basil leaves rather than long stems.
• Another option is to wrap the basil in a damp paper towel and put it in a plastic bag.
• If the basil has stems, trim the ends and place them in a glass jar with a few inches of water (like a flower bouquet); then drape a plastic bag on top. Be sure to change the water each day to keep the basil fresh. This technique "helps keep the leaves and stems turgid, preventing them from wilting and becoming damaged over time," says Le.

Regardless of the approach you choose, always avoid completely sealing basil in a container. "[This] will create an environment that's too humid at room temperature," says Benstock.

How Long Basil Lasts

The exact shelf life of basil depends on its freshness upon purchase. But in general, when stored properly, it will last about one to three days, says Olivia Roszkowski, chef-instructor of plant-based culinary arts at the Institute of Culinary Education.

Tips to Extend Basil's Lifespan

• Avoid washing your basil until you're ready to use it. Remember, the herb is already high in moisture, so the extra step can promote drooping.
• Check the basil every day (or nearly every day). Remove pieces that have browned or wilted, as this can spread to neighboring sprigs, says Roszkowski. 
• Buy basil that was grown hydroponically. "This variety lasts longer [than traditionally grown basil] and is not so prone to bruising," says Roszkowski. She notes it is also usually fresher because it travels less distance to reach your kitchen. 
  

How to Freeze Basil

Although basil is susceptible to cold damage, it's possible to freeze it for long-term storage.

Chop and Make Herb Cubes

Freeze basil in herb cubes by combining a neutral oil with chopped basil (on its own or combined with any other of your go-to herbs) and transfer the mixture into ice-cube trays. This technique will retain the color and flavor of the herbs while letting you enjoy them for longer. The basil cubes will keep for about three months.

Blanch and Freeze Individual Leaves

If you want to freeze individual leaves, be sure to blanch them first. Here's how, according to Roszkowski:

1. Bring a small pot of water to a boil and salt it generously. (The salt will make the basil bright green because it brings out the chlorophyll pigments.)
2. Place the basil in boiling water for 10 to 15 seconds, drain, and cool in an ice bath.
3. Squeeze out the excess water and freeze them individually on a baking sheet (or chop the leaves) before putting them in an airtight container.

Note: Freezing will expand the herb's cell walls, causing it to become limp after thawing. Freezing basil is best if you plan to use it in cooked dishes (like soups or stews). It is not suitable to use as a garnish.