Why You’ll Love How to Freeze Basil (Basil Cubes)Recipe
Freezing basil into cubes is a fast and effective way to save extra herbs from your garden or market. The olive oil helps maintain the vibrant color and fresh flavor, so when added to dishes later, it tastes almost like fresh basil. These cubes are portioned perfectly for cooking and can be used straight from the freezer.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh basil leaves
olive oil
Directions
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Wash the basil and pat it dry with a towel.
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Chop the basil into fine pieces.
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Place an ice cube tray on your counter and add about 1 tablespoon of chopped basil to each cube slot.
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Pour 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil over the basil in each slot, depending on how much oil you prefer.
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Freeze the tray for 2–3 hours or overnight until the cubes are solid.
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Pop the frozen basil cubes out of the tray and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Servings and timing
Prep time: about 30 minutes
Yield: approximately 12 basil cubes
Variations
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Garlic basil cubes: Add a pinch of minced garlic to each cube for extra flavor.
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Citrus basil cubes: Add lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
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Mixed herb cubes: Combine basil with parsley, thyme, or oregano for versatile flavor blends.
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Water-based cubes: Use water instead of oil if you want a lighter version or prefer to avoid oil in recipes.
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Pesto starter cubes: Add a small amount of parmesan and pine nuts to each cube for a shortcut to pesto.
Storage/Reheating
Store the frozen basil cubes in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container to prevent freezer burn. They will stay fresh and flavorful for 6 to 9 months. No need to thaw—simply add a cube directly to hot dishes, and it will melt into your recipe.
FAQs
What are basil cubes?
Basil cubes are small frozen portions of chopped basil mixed with olive oil, perfect for cooking and preserving fresh flavor.
Do I need to blanch basil before freezing?
No, blanching isn’t necessary. Freezing basil with olive oil helps retain its color and flavor without the need for blanching.
Can I use water instead of olive oil?
Yes, though olive oil better preserves the flavor and texture. Water is a good option for oil-free diets.
How much basil do I need per cube?
Each cube typically holds about 1 tablespoon of chopped basil.
Can I freeze other herbs this way?
Absolutely. Parsley, cilantro, thyme, and oregano all freeze well using the same method.
How long do basil cubes last in the freezer?
They can last up to 9 months when stored in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
How do I use frozen basil cubes in cooking?
Just drop them into sauces, soups, pastas, or any hot dish where you’d normally add fresh basil.
Can I use a food processor for chopping basil?
Yes, it’s a great way to chop larger batches quickly and evenly.
Should I label the basil cubes?
Yes, labeling helps you keep track of the contents and date of freezing, especially if you make multiple flavors.
Can I add other ingredients to the basil cubes?
Definitely. Garlic, lemon zest, parmesan, or even a blend of herbs can be added for more complex flavor cubes.
Conclusion
Freezing basil as olive oil cubes is a smart and practical way to enjoy the fresh taste of basil all year long. With minimal effort, you can preserve this aromatic herb in convenient portions that add instant flavor to your cooking. Whether you’re tossing one into a soup or stirring it into a sauce, basil cubes are a kitchen staple worth preparing in advance.
