Storing Fresh Basil

My favorite herb has got to be fresh basil.  Here are two options to preserving your summer crop to keep it lasting well into the winter months!

credit:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/sheepbackcabin/6847252314/ 

1. Prune the leaves and place them on wax paper on a cookie sheet and place into the freezer.  Once frozen place in a sealed bag and try to get out most of the air.  Keep in freezer until ready to use.
2. Another way is to finely chop it up with a food processor.  Add basil and a bit of olive oil in the processor and pulse until finely chopped.  Scoop mixture into then place into ice cube trays or small containers and freeze.  

It is also possible to transplant the plant and bring it indoors for the winter months if you have room to store it in bright sun.  Here's a site with great tips & tricks for keeping herbs. www.basilguide.com

Lucy