How to Store Fresh Herbs for Maximum Freshness
Are you tired of buying or harvesting fresh herbs only to have them wilt or lose their flavor too soon? Proper herb storage is key to maximizing freshness and preserving flavor. Learn how to store your favorite Trefoil Gardens herbs in the fridge, freezer, or pantry to keep them lasting longer! (Handy Chart)
Parsley: How to Store Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley can last up to 2 weeks if stored in a jar of water with the stems submerged. Cover the jar loosely with a plastic bag to protect it from wilting. Another option is to chop and freeze parsley in ice cube trays with water or olive oil—an easy way to add flavor to soups or sautés.
Sage: Preserving Sage for Long-Term Use
Fresh sage stays good for 1-2 weeks when wrapped in a damp paper towel and stored in the fridge. For longer storage, blanch and freeze the sage or dry the leaves and store in an airtight container. Dried sage retains its earthy flavor and is perfect for seasoning throughout the year.
Rosemary: How to Keep Rosemary Fresh
Rosemary can be stored in a damp paper towel in a plastic bag in the fridge, where it will last up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze whole sprigs or chop rosemary and freeze it in ice cube trays with olive oil or water. Dried rosemary works well in cooking and retains its fragrance.
Thyme: Best Way to Store Fresh Thyme
Thyme can be kept in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel. For long-term storage, freeze thyme sprigs whole or chopped in ice cube trays, or dry the sprigs and store them in an airtight container.
Oregano: Keeping Oregano Fresh and Flavorful
Fresh oregano will last up to 2 weeks when stored in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel. Like thyme, you can freeze oregano whole or chopped in ice cubes with water or oil. Drying oregano is another great option to preserve its bold flavor for months.
Cilantro: Storing Fresh Cilantro for Maximum Flavor
Cilantro is known to wilt quickly, but placing the stems in a jar of water and loosely covering it with a plastic bag can extend its life up to 2 weeks. For long-term use, chop cilantro and freeze it in ice cube trays with water or olive oil. Drying cilantro isn’t ideal, as it tends to lose flavor, so freezing is your best bet.
Texas Tarragon: Storing Fresh Texas Tarragon
Fresh Texas tarragon can last up to 2 weeks when wrapped in a damp paper towel and stored in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze chopped tarragon in ice cube trays with water or oil. Dried Texas tarragon is also a great option for enhancing the flavor of sauces and dressings, so air-dry the leaves and store them in an airtight container.
Herb Storage at a Glance: A Quick Reference Guide
By following these simple storage techniques, you can reduce waste and ensure that your fresh herbs retain their full flavor for as long as possible. Whether you use fresh, frozen, or dried herbs, these methods help preserve the nutrients and flavors that make these plants so beneficial and delicious. Don’t let your herbs go to waste—store them right and enjoy them year-round!