Don’t Discard the Flowers on Your Basil: Here are 8 Ways How to Use Them

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is one of the most cherished herbs around the world. Its fragrant leaves are a staple in cuisines ranging from Italian to Thai, used to flavor sauces, salads, and even drinks.

But what many gardeners and home cooks overlook are the tiny, star-shaped flowers that bloom at the top of a maturing basil plant.

Often mistaken as a sign that the plant is “past its prime,” these blossoms are quickly pinched off and discarded.

But in truth, basil flowers are just as valuable as the leaves – offering a milder, floral version of the herb’s classic aroma, plus their own culinary and medicinal uses.

If your basil is blooming, don’t waste those flowers. Here are eight creative, flavorful, and practical ways to make the most of them – along with a bonus tip that could fuel next season’s garden.Continue reading…