Don’t Toss Your Basil Flowers: Here Are 8 Ways to Use Them

The next time your basil starts to bloom, think twice before simply tossing those flowers aside.

Basil, a beloved herb in kitchens around the world, is best known for its aromatic leaves that enhance many dishes. But what should you do with the flowers that develop on your plants? Gardeners and cooks often remove them to encourage leaf growth, thinking that their appearance means the plant has reached its peak. However, basil flowers are far from useless.

They have several benefits and uses that you may not have considered. Here’s why you should save your basil flowers and how to best use them in your garden and kitchen.

Use Basil Flowers as a Flavorful Garnish
Basil flowers are edible and offer a milder, more subtle version of the classic basil flavor. Their delicate flavor profile makes them an ideal garnish for a variety of dishes.
Salads: Add a splash of color and a hint of basil flavor.
Soups and pastas: Use the flowers as a finishing touch.
Cocktails: Incorporate a few flowers for a unique presentation and herbaceous flavor.
Make Basil Flower Infused Oil
Infusing oils with basil flowers is a great way to capture their flavor. Use this oil in salad dressings, marinades, or as a final seasoning.

Preparation: Mix the flowers with olive oil in a sterilized bottle. Let sit in a cool, dark place for 1 to 2 weeks.
Use: Strain the flowers and use the oil to add a fresh note to your dishes.
Make Basil Flower Tea
Basil flowers steeped in herbal tea offer a slightly sweeter, floral flavor, while retaining the aromatic qualities of the leaves.
Preparation: Use fresh or dried flowers to infuse in boiling water.

Flavor: Enhance with honey or lemon.
Make Basil Flower Vinegar
This infused vinegar can be used in salad dressings or as a base for homemade pickles.
Directions: Infuse flowers in white wine or cider vinegar.
Use: Strain and use to add a floral flavor to your dishes.
Attract Pollinators to Your Garden
Basil flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, improving the overall health of your garden.
Use: Allow some flowers to bloom to attract pollinators.
Make Basil Flower Pesto
Use flowers for a pesto with a floral flavor profile that’s great for sandwiches, pasta, or as a dip.
Directions: Blend flowers with garlic, walnuts, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and salt.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Dry the Flowers for Later Use
Dried flowers retain their aroma and can be used in teas, potpourris, or as a spice.
Method: Air dry or use a dehydrator.
Storage: Store in airtight containers.
Incorporate Basil Flowers into Homemade Skin Care
With their antioxidant and antibacterial properties, the flowers are ideal for skin care.
Use: Add them to facial steams or infuse them into oils for hydrating treatments.
Basil flowers are incredibly versatile and can transform your dishes as well as the health of your garden. So save them to discover their golden potential!