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Here is how to cut fresh basil into pretty chiffonade, the thin strips of the herb you see scattered on top of Margarita pizzas, in Caprese salads, and on fresh sandwiches.
Chiffonade is a culinary term for any thinly cut strips of vegetables or herbs – usually a garnish. In French it literally means “made of rags.’
How to cut basil
- Take a few leaves and stack one on top of the other. Put the largest one the bottom.
- Roll them together.
- Hold them into a tight cylinder
- Using a sharp knife, slice the basil leaves as thinly as possible.
- Move from one end of the cylinder to the other.
- Separate the ribbons of basil and then you’re ready to use them!
how to store fresh cut basil
- Basil is notoriously fragile. It bruises easily. The leaves turn dark with too much handling. Use as quickly as possible.
- If you must, wrap in a damp paper towel, in a food storage bag, or covered container for 1-2 days.
Recipes with fresh cut basil
- Bruschetta
- Classic Caprese Salad
- Pasta with Peas
- Peach Salad
- Baked Feta Pasta
- Grilled Pizza
- Zucchini Ravioli
- Pesto Tomato Flatbread
- Sheet Pan Pizza
- Grilled Mozzarella Sandwich
Frequently asked questions
No. It will be slimy when defrosted.
No, it’s not recommended. It will not taste the same. The taste of basil transforms when it is dried into something some people compare as being closer to mint.
Yes, but for the most flavorful impact, add in the last few minutes of cooking.
Fresh basil is one of those herbs that really elevates dishes. From pastas, to pizzas, sandwiches and salads, it’s a great way to finish off a dish and add a sweet aromatic flavor.
More KITCHEN TUTORIALS:
- How to Cut an Avocado
- How to Cut a Tomato
- How to Cut Potatoes
- How to Cut Brussel Sprouts
- How to Cut an Onion
- How to Cut Cauliflower
- How to Cut Acorn Squash
- How to Cut Green Onions
- How to Cut Basil
- How to Cut a Whole Chicken
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How to Cut Basil
Ingredients
- Basil leaves no stems
Instructions
- Stack 5 leaves on top of one another, so they’re curled up, leaving the largest on the bottom.
- Roll the leaves up into a tight cylinder.
- Using a sharp knife slice the basil as thin as possible from one end to the other.
- Separate the ribbons of basil with your hands and use as desired in a recipe that calls for fresh basil.
Equipment
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.
