What can I do with my basil plants?

I have three large basil plants growing next to my front walk, and I would like to still have fresh basil this winter. Can I cut off parts of them and grow them inside? Or can I dry the leaves, and if so, how would I do this? Tonight's the first hard freeze, so I would like to save at least parts of the plants if I could.

What can I do with my basil plants?
I cut the stems off the plant and put them in water. Within a week they started to root. I then plant them in pots and set them in a south facing window and water very regularly. I always have fresh basil all winter long. In the spring I plant them out in my herb garden. Enjoy your basil.
Reply:You can cut of stems and put them in clean water and they will sprout roots within a week and you can also have it for sidedishes.
Reply:Cut the leaves off spread them loosely out on newspaper and let dry about a week then grind them up and put into a spice jar/shaker and it should last you to next growing season hope this helps
Reply:I cut them and hang them in loose bunches in the garage. When they are dry and brittle, I put them in the freezer in plastic bags and enjoy basil during the winter months.



You could make some pesto and freeze it in ice cube trays. Then put the cubes in plastic freezer bags. Many times when I am tired and don't want to cook, I just break out a cube or two and warm it over pasta... instant dinner and so tasty!!!



Pesto



4 C. loose fresh, clean leaves

1 1/2 C. olive oil

1 C. fresh Parmesan

1/2 C pine nuts ( some people like walnuts)

3 cloves garlic



Process in food processor or blender until smooth.
Reply:Yes you can grow them inside by a sunny window. You could also make a bunch of basil pesto and freeze it. You could also use the basil to make some spaghetti sauce and freeze that as well. You will have quick dinner options as a result.
Reply:Dig up the whole plant, plop it in a pot, and put it on a sunny windowsill. Basil is one of the easier grown indoor herbs. If you decide to dry the leaves, cut the plants off, tie the stems together and hang them upside down, somewhere non-dusty, out of direct light, and dry. Once the leaves are "crispy" carefully break them off and store in an air-tight container, in a dark place. You could also freeze it. Chop it finely, place premeasured amounts in the holes of an ice-cube mold. Add water and freeze. Remove from the mold and place in zip-lock bag. If you want to add some basil to a sauce, just pull out as many "basil-cubes" as you like, and toss in the sauce as it bubbles. You may need to cook it just a bit longer to evaporate the excess water.