Homemade basil salt is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to preserve fresh basil from the garden. With just two simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful seasoning that captures the taste of summer and adds incredible flavor to everyday meals.
Whether you grow basil in raised beds, containers, or a kitchen garden, basil salt is an easy way to extend your harvest and add flavor to everyday meals. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Why Make Homemade Basil Salt?
Fresh basil has a wonderful flavor, but it doesn’t last long once harvested. Making basil salt is an easy herb preservation method that allows you to enjoy the taste of fresh basil long after the growing season ends.
Homemade basil salt can be used on:
- Garden-fresh tomatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Potatoes
- Pasta dishes
- Homemade bread
- Eggs and omelets
- Grilled chicken
- Fresh mozzarella
The bright green color and fresh herb flavor make it a beautiful addition to any kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1 cup coarse sea salt or kosher salt
How to Make Basil Salt
Step 1: Harvest Fresh Basil
Pick healthy basil leaves from your garden. Morning is often the best time to harvest herbs because the essential oils are at their peak.
Rinse the basil gently and pat dry with a clean towel. Remove excess moisture before proceeding.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Place the fresh basil leaves and sea salt or kosher salt into a food processor.
Pulse until the basil is finely chopped and evenly distributed throughout the salt. The mixture should turn a beautiful green color and smell wonderfully fragrant.
Step 3: Dry the Basil Salt
Spread the basil salt mixture in a thin layer on a baking sheet or parchment-lined tray.
I prefer drying in the oven. For drying, I place the tray in the oven at 220 degree temperature for 25 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool and sit at room temperature for 2-4 hours.
You can also air dry for 24 to 48 hours, stirring occasionally. Make sure the basil is completely dry before storing.
Step 4: Store
Once completely dry, transfer the basil salt to an airtight glass jar.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly dried basil salt can last for several months.
Tips for the Best Basil Salt
Use Coarse Salt
Coarse sea salt or kosher salt works best because it absorbs the basil oils while maintaining a pleasant texture.
Harvest Before Flowering
For the strongest basil flavor, harvest basil before the plant begins producing flowers. Pinching off flower buds encourages more leafy growth throughout the season.
Make Larger Batches
If your garden is overflowing with basil, simply double or triple the recipe. Homemade basil salt is an excellent way to preserve a large basil harvest.
Growing Basil in the Home Garden
Basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow and is a favorite in many kitchen gardens. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and benefits from regular harvesting.
I currently have basil growing in several spots throughout my garden. Regular harvesting keeps the plants bushy, productive, and healthy all summer long.
The more you harvest basil, the more it tends to grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use table salt?
While you can use table salt, coarse sea salt or kosher salt produces a better texture and flavor.
Does basil salt need refrigeration?
No. As long as the basil salt is completely dried before storing, it can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I use other herbs?
Absolutely. This same method works well with rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, and oregano.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade basil salt is one of the simplest ways to preserve fresh basil from the garden. With just two ingredients and a few minutes of preparation, you can create a flavorful seasoning that brings the taste of summer into your kitchen year-round.
If your basil plants are thriving this season, give this easy basil salt recipe a try. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the harvest and enjoy your garden long after the growing season comes to an end.
