Your pepper plant actually will look similar to your basil. A little fuller and obviously different leaf structure. It looks amazing.
Your basil definitely needs a little 'plucking.' There are several way to preserve them besides drying. I personally prefer not to dry out herbs, they lose a lot in the flavor and benefits. But making an basil infused oil or basil/garlic infused oil ...mmmmm. Sorry little bit of a passion for me I could chat for hours on this hehe.
I might have to try that, it sounds very useful and delicious. Anything to keep this basil in check!