How to Dry Fresh Basil Leaves in 90 Seconds! {Microwave + Air Dry Tips}

With this tip for How to Dry Fresh Basil, you’ll never need to buy dried basil in the spice section of your grocery store again!

So… have you ever wondered How to Dry Fresh Basil?  I’ve got a secret for you… it’s ridiculously easy to make your own dried herbs.  Crazy, right?  In addition to making DIY Seasoning Recipes, I love drying my own herbs at home!

If you use this tip with homegrown herbs, you’ll even end up with Organic dried herbs… which can be a huge money-saver!

There are a few different ways to dry herbs, but the microwave drying method for herbs is my favorite.  It’s quick, simple, and the herbs retain their gorgeous, vibrant color!  {SO much prettier than store bought herbs!}  The flavor is just fabulous, too!  Are you ready to dry some Basil??

Just follow these easy step by step instructions below…

How to Dry Fresh Basil

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How Do You Dry Basil?

It’s actually really easy!  There are two simple methods to dry your Basil at home and save it for later use.  You can either use your microwave to dry up the leaves quickly, or just let your leaves dry out naturally over the course of a few weeks.

How to Dry Basil – Supplies Needed:

• Fresh Basil Leaves
• Glass or Ceramic Microwaveable Plate + Microwave-Safe Paper Towels
• OR Rubber Band + Twine

How to Dry Fresh Basil in the Microwave:

1. Place 1 paper towel flat on your plate
2. Lay out Basil Leaves in a single layer on the paper towel.
3. Place another paper towel on top.
4. Microwave 30 seconds, then in 15 second increments until leaves are dry.  {time will vary depending on the size of leaves – smaller leaves will dry much faster, and require less time – my larger leaves are usually dried out and ready after 90 seconds or so.}
5. After dry, simply crumble and crush the basil leaves with your fingers.
6. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place {like with your other spices}.  Mini Mason Jars work great, or you could even use your old spice containers!

What Your Frugal Friends Are Saying About The Microwave Method…

Erin writes: “Super easy and fast!”

Cindy writes: “Aromatic and amazing”

Becky writes: “Used your method which worked out great. Tried it on chicken and was delicious.”

Kelly writes: “Worked out beautifully!!! One minute 45 seconds was perfect!!! Will do this from now on with my garden herbs before Winter hits so I have plenty on hand…until I plant again in Spring.”

Sue writes: “Worked great… have used the dried basil in sauce and it’s very good. Will never have to buy this again. And never throw away those gorgeous leaves again or let them die off!!”

Cath writes: “This worked great! I have tons of basil to dry. I did several rounds through the microwave, then I reused the same paper towels and same plate. No problems. Easy peasy! Used it for drying oregano too. Only needed about 1 min 30 sec to dry the oregano.”

Joe writes: “We’ve used the microwave method for basil, rosemary, and oregano.”

How to Air Dry Basil:

No Microwave?  No problem!  You can also dry your basil using a dehydrator, or here’s an old-fashioned method that works just as well…

1. Take a bundle of basil leaves from your garden {or leftovers from the grocery store}, fasten the ends with a rubber band, then leave as is, or tie some twine around them for easier hanging.
2. Hang them upside, and allow to dry completely inside your home.
3. Leaves should be dry within 1 – 2 weeks, depending on how humid your home is.  If you’re in a humid climate, it may take a bit longer.
4. After the leaves are dry, remove them from the stem.
5. Discard the stems, then gently crumble and crush the basil leaves with your fingers.
6. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place {pantry or spice cabinet}.  I like to use mini mason jars or old glass spice containers to store mine.

Dried Basil Uses:

Now that you have delicious dried basil, there are so many amazing ways to put this tasty herb to use in your dishes!  Here are a few of my favorites…

• Chili Seasoning – Mix up some homemade chili seasoning to create your own 5-star chili at home!  Trust me… this seasoning is a game changer!
• Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread Bites – grab your slow cooker and get ready for this outrageously delicious Italian dinner side!
• Marinara Sauce – Add it to your pasta sauce to amp up the flavor
• Pizza Sauce – Add it to your pizza sauce for an explosion of delicious flavor
• Tomato Basil Chicken – Cook up some Crockpot chicken Italian style for one of the EASIEST dinners you’ll make all week

Delicious Basil Recipe Inspiration:

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So don’t miss out on anything!!  Follow along with The Frugal Girls here for more fun Frugal Tips, Recipes + more…

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