8 Clever Ways to Keep Herbs Fresh Weeks Longer

Fresh herbs add instant flavor to meals—but they also have a frustrating habit of wilting before you get a chance to use them. The good news? With a few simple storage tricks, you can keep herbs fresh for weeks instead of days and cut down on food waste at the same time.

Swipe through for clever, kitchen-tested ways to make your herbs last longer.

Treat Soft Herbs Like Flowers

Soft herbs such as cilantro, parsley, basil, and mint stay fresher when stored upright in a jar with a little water. Trim the stems, place them in water like a bouquet, and loosely cover the tops with a plastic bag. Store in the fridge (except basil, which prefers room temperature).

Wrap Hardy Herbs in a Damp Towel

Rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano last longer when wrapped in a lightly damp paper towel. Place the wrapped herbs in a resealable bag or container and store in the crisper drawer to maintain the right moisture level without causing rot.

Keep Basil Out of the Fridge

Basil is sensitive to cold and turns black quickly in the refrigerator. Store it on the counter in a jar of water, away from direct sunlight. This simple change can keep basil vibrant for up to two weeks or more.

Wash and Dry Thoroughly Before Storing

Moisture clinging to leaves can cause herbs to spoil faster. Wash herbs as soon as you get home, then dry them completely using a salad spinner or clean towel before storing. Dry herbs last significantly longer.

Use Airtight Containers With a Paper Towel

Lining an airtight container with a paper towel helps absorb excess moisture while preventing herbs from drying out. This method works especially well for pre-washed herbs and leafy varieties like cilantro and parsley.

Freeze Herbs in Ice Cube Trays

For herbs you can’t use in time, freezing is a game-changer. Chop herbs, place them in ice cube trays, and cover with water or broth. Once frozen, transfer cubes to a freezer bag for easy, portioned use in soups and sauces.

Store Delicate Herbs in the Crisper Drawer

The crisper drawer maintains a more consistent humidity level, which helps prevent herbs from drying out too quickly. Keep delicate herbs protected in containers or bags to avoid airflow damage.

Revive Limp Herbs With an Ice Bath

If herbs start to wilt, don’t toss them just yet. Soak them in a bowl of ice water for 10–15 minutes, then dry thoroughly. This quick trick can bring many herbs back to life and extend their usability.

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