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freezing basil #773488

Asked September 28, 2021, 6:11 PM EDT

Can you freeze basil such as Thai or regular basil without using oil or combining with water? I want to use it as you would fresh in a pasta salad or tomato salad after the freeze time.

Larimer County Colorado

Expert Response

Hello, 

Here is some information for you regarding freezing herbs. If you'd like to learn more, this webpage has more specifics:

 https://foodsmartcolorado.colostate.edu/recipes/preservation/herbs-using-and-preserving/
Quick-frozen herbs will keep up to one year in the freezer if well packaged. To tray freeze herbs, wash herbs, drain, and pat dry. Strip leaves off stems, spread leaves in a single layer on a cookie sheet and place in freezer for at least 30 minutes. Place frozen leaves in freezer bag. Label with herb’s name, date, and return to freezer for use as needed. Cut herb leaves can also be frozen in ice cubes, see directions under basil in Herb Characteristics and Preservation Information Table. Frozen herbs are best used in cooked dishes as they will become limp when thawed.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 01, 2021, 4:58 PM EDT

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