How To Store Fresh Herbs

Learn how to store fresh herbs to prolong their shelf life and preserve their vibrant flavor, making all your recipes taste great!

How to Store Fresh Herbs Long-term

I always seem to end up with extra fresh herbs and no idea what to do with them. Buying fresh herbs is always a bit tricky since the amount you get at the supermarket is usually way more than you need. And to make things worse, they can go bad quickly in the fridge. They can turn limp, wilted, discolored, or even slimy after just a day. It is such a waste!

That is why learning how to store fresh herbs properly is so important. Not only will it help reduce waste, but it also gives you fantastic, flavorful ingredients that are ready to use anytime. To help prevent your produce from going to waste, I’m giving you five ways to store fresh herbs so they last as long as possible!

Top gun image of an oval plate with crispy smashed potatoes.

How to Store Fresh Herbs in the Fridge

There are a few ways to store fresh herbs in the refrigerator, but I find the paper towel method to work best. It seems to keep the herbs soft, tender, and flavorful for longer than any other method.

Lay a few sheets of damp paper towel flat on the counter.
Spread the fresh herbs across the paper towel, lining them up in a single row.
Gently roll the paper towel and herbs together, loosely enclosing the herbs inside the paper towel.
Place the paper towel roll into a large zippered bag, and store the bag in the fridge.

How to Store Fresh Herbs in Water

Keeping fresh herbs in water is a simple and effective method to extend their freshness. By treating them like a bouquet, you can preserve their vibrant flavors and colors. This method not only keeps them hydrated but also allows you to easily access them whenever you need. Plus, they look very pretty on your kitchen counter!

Fill a clean glass jar or mason jar with water.
Trim the stems of your fresh herbs so they are a good height for the jar.
Place the fresh herbs in the water like a bouquet of flowers.
Keep the jar at room temperature, or place the herb bouquet in the fridge to make the herbs last even longer.

Close up of watermelon, cucumber, feta salad topped with fresh herbs.

How to Store Fresh Herbs in the Freezer

Freezing fresh herbs is a fantastic way to keep their flavors intact for months. I like to use an ice cube tray with water or oil to freeze the herbs in individual portions. This not only preserves their taste but also makes it easy to use them in your recipes. You will use these convenient little herb bombs all the time!

Place your fresh herbs in a blender or food processor with a little bit of olive oil or water. You should use about 2 tablespoons of liquid for every 1 cup of loose, fresh herbs.
Pulse the blender to finely chop the herbs, and mix them into the water.
Pour the mix into an ice cube tray, and transfer the tray to the freezer.
Once frozen, move the herb bombs into a zippered freezer bag to store for up to 6 months. Defrost in the fridge, and use as desired.

How to Vacuum Seal Fresh Herbs

Vacuum-sealing fresh herbs is one of the best ways to extend their shelf life while preserving their flavor and aroma. Vacuum sealing removes air and prevents moisture, which helps keep the herbs fresh and ready to use for months!

Wash and thoroughly dry the herbs to remove any moisture.
Place the herbs in a vacuum seal bag, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
Use a vacuum sealer to remove the air from the bag, and seal it tightly.
Store the sealed package of herbs in the fridge or freezer.

Storing Fresh Herbs in an Herb Keeper

Yes, there are special containers designed just for keeping herbs. How cool! These specialized containers provide the right environment for herbs by blocking out moisture and easily sealing them from humidity. Plus, it keeps your fresh herbs easily accessible. You can just open up the container and grab a few herbs anytime!

Place your fresh herbs into a clean, dry herb keeper.
Close the lid, and store the herb keeper in the fridge.
Use the herbs as needed, sealing the container closed each time to keep the remaining herbs fresh.

Quick Tip

Before you store your fresh herbs, always wash and completely dry them. You want to remove any dirt from the tender leaves. Then, dry them thoroughly. Water and moisture can make those delicate herbs go bad quickly. So, keeping them dry will help to extend the shelf life!

I hope you find this post on How to Store Fresh Herbs helpful! If so, please share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations on social media @allthingsmamma using #allthingsmamma. Happy baking!