Fresh herbs are one of my favorite additions to recipes. They add a bright and fresh taste that can’t quite be replicated by dry herbs. We all know the struggle of seeing those once-vibrant herbs turn wilted and sad in a blink of an eye. But fear not! In this blog post, I want to shed some light on all the ways to store fresh herbs, so you can enjoy their flavors and aromas for way longer. Let’s dive in and uncover some cool tips and tricks to keep those herbs fresh and vibrant!
Storing Leafy Fresh Herbs (Basil, Cilantro, Parsley, etc.)
Leafy herbs are very finicky they need some extra care to stay perky. Here’s how to keep them happy:
- Give them a trim: First things first, snip off the sad-looking ends and pluck any wilted or yucky leaves. We want only the good stuff!
- Water bouquet: Treat your herbs like a fancy bouquet. Pop them in a jar or glass of water, making sure the stems are submerged while the leaves can breathe. Cover the leaves with a loose plastic bag secured by a rubber band. Chill in the fridge, changing the water every few days.
- Herb wraps: Grab a damp paper towel, wrap it loosely around the herbs, and seal them up in a resealable plastic bag. This keeps the herbs moist but not too wet. Toss the bag in the fridge.
Storing Woody Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Sage, etc.)
These herbs are the sturdy ones, they last longer, but they still need some extra preparation. Check out these storage hacks:
- Fridge: Wrap your woody herbs in a damp paper towel, then place in an airtight container or bag. This shields the herbs from too much air and keeps fresher longer.
- Freezer: Woody herbs are prefect to freeze. Chop them up, throw them in an ice cube tray, and cover them with olive oil or water. Once frozen, toss those herb cubes into a freezer bag with minimal air. They’ll be ready to use whenever you need them in your cooking.
Storing Delicate Fresh Herbs (Dill, Mint, Chives, etc.)
Delicate fresh herbs require gentle treatment and some unique storage techniques:
- Damp towel: Lay them out on a damp paper towel, roll it up gently, and tuck them into a bag or container in the fridge. This keeps them moist and prevents wilting.
- Herbal vinegar: Take those delicate herbs to the next level by making herbal vinegar. Put them in a sterilized bottle filled with vinegar. The result? Super-flavored vinegar for dressings and marinades, plus preserved herbs!
There you have it, the best ways to store fresh herbs! With these storage tips in your pocket, you’ll never have to say goodbye to wilted herbs again. Keep your leafy, woody, and delicate herbs fresh and bright, ready to use in your recipes.
