Go Back

Basil Salt Recipe

A simple homemade basil salt made with fresh basil and coarse salt for a fragrant finishing seasoning.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 16 servings
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Calories: 18
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the basil salt
  • 2 packed cups fresh basil leaves washed and thoroughly dried
  • 1 cup coarse sea salt or kosher salt
Optional additions
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest finely grated
  • 1 small garlic clove minced very finely

Equipment

  • 1 food processor or mortar and pestle
  • 1 Baking sheet lined with parchment if oven-drying
  • 1 airtight jar for storage

Method
 

Prepare the basil salt
  1. Wash the basil leaves if needed, then dry them extremely well with towels and air-dry briefly if necessary.
  2. Add the basil leaves and salt to a food processor. Add the lemon zest or garlic now if using.
  3. Pulse until the basil is finely chopped and evenly combined with the salt.
  4. Spread the mixture in a thin, even layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or large plate.
  5. Dry in a 170°F oven, or the lowest setting available, for 35 to 45 minutes, stirring once or twice, until dry to the touch and no longer clumpy.
  6. Let the basil salt cool completely.
  7. For a finer texture, pulse the cooled mixture again briefly in the food processor or grind in a spice grinder.
  8. Transfer to a clean, dry airtight jar and use as a finishing salt.

Notes

Dry the basil thoroughly before blending, and make sure the finished salt is fully dry before storing. For longest shelf life, keep it in a cool dry place or refrigerate if using garlic or lemon zest.