Storing fresh basil leaves Store fresh basil leaves in the refrigerator, loosely wrapped in a plastic bag for up to one week. Make sure that the leaves are completely dry before putting them in the bag, otherwise they will turn black.
Picking fresh basil leaves
Water the plant a few hours before picking basil to perk up the
leaves. Pick basil from plants that have not seeded yet, as the leaves are sweeter. To prepare basil leaves, wash in lots of cold water and gently pat dry with a towel. Do not cut basil leaves with a knife - use your fingers instead.
Preserving the color of basil leaves To preserve the color of basil leaves, do not cut cut them - leave them whole instead.
Retaining the aroma and flavour of basil in recipes Add basil leaves towards the end of cooking to retain the aroma and
flavor.
Storing fresh herbs (oregano, thyme, basil, resemary) To store fresh herbs such as oregano, thyme, basil, resemary, wash them first, dry them completely, put the in a plastic bag and refrigerate for up to 3 days.