How to Store Fresh Basil in Olive Oil

Last Updated: May 6, 2021 References Approved

There is no need to dispose of unused fresh basil, nor do you need to freeze it or dry it. Instead, try this handy method that will let you keep basil in a wonderfully soft state for months to come.

Ingredients

Fresh basil
Salt
Olive oil (or other suitable oil)

Steps

1
Clean the basil leaves and allow to dry.^{[1]
X
Research source}
2
Place in a suitable storage container.

Advertisement
3
Sprinkle with salt. Shake through to cover in salt.^{[2]
X
Research source}
4
Fill the container with olive oil.
5
Cover the container. Place in the fridge and leave. Stored in this manner, the basil leaves will remain in great condition for use over the coming months.^{[3]
X
Research source}
6
Use as usual according to your recipe. Both the leaves and the oil (now infused with basil) can be used for cooking.

Community Q&A

Question

Will the olive oil with added fresh basil go bad?

Community Answer

Yes. Herbs stored in oil should be kept in the refrigerator and used quickly unless it is a commercial preparation. Make just as much oil as you will use up quickly. It is better to be safe and avoid botulism.
Question

Is basil safe to store in olive oil?

Sami97

Community Answer

Yes, it is. It won't go bad if it's stored in olive oil. A tip: freeze the olive oil with the basil in it. This way, you can easily add the cubes to your food.
Question

How can I keep basil without its colour fading?

Don Dattler

Community Answer

Blanch it in boiling water for 15-20 seconds and immediately transfer to ice cold water. It will preserve the bright green color accordingly.