Store fresh herbs either in a glass with water or wrapped in damp paper towels in the fridge.
If stored improperly, fresh herbs won't stay fresh for long - usually only a few days. However, when stored properly, fresh herbs can remain fresh for well over a week. The best approach depends on whether the herb is soft-stemmed (such as parsley, cilantro, or basil) or hard-stemmed (herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage).
How to Store Soft-Stemmed Herbs
Water Glass Method
Trim the stems, and then place the herbs in a glass of water, like setting flowers in a vase. Cover the herbs (loosely) with a plastic bag and set them in the fridge. For best results, change the water every two days. This method keeps soft-stemmed herbs fresh for up to 10 days versus 2-3 days when stored in produce bags or loose in refrigerator drawers. Soft-stemmed herbs are leafy with thin stems, such as basil, cilantro, Italian parsley, curly-leaf parsley, and mint.
Basil Storage Exception
Exception: Even though it is a soft-stemmed herb, never refrigerate basil. Basil is very sensitive to cold and will turn black if refrigerated. Instead, keep basil at room temperature in water and away from direct sunlight.
How to Store Hard-Stemmed Herbs
Damp Paper Towel Method
Wrap hard-stemmed herbs in damp paper towels, and then place them in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag in the fridge. This controls the moisture level, which prevents the hard stem from rotting. Stored like this, hard-stemmed herbs can remain fresh for up to 3 weeks. Hard-stemmed herbs include Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano, and Sage.
How to Tell if Your Storage Method Is Working
If your herbs are bright green (or dark green, depending on the variety) and have a firm yet pliable texture, they're fresh. By contrast, any yellowing or brown spots, or oily-feeling stems, are clear indicators that the herbs are losing freshness. If your herbs are giving off rancid odors, that's a clear sign that it's time to toss them.
Essential Herb Storage Tips
- Remove wilted leaves before storing to prevent the wilt from spreading.
- Don't wash herbs until you're ready to use them. Excess moisture accelerates decay.
- Store herb types separately. Some herbs release ethylene gas, which ages other herbs faster.
And that's my answer for how to best store fresh herbs.
Happy Cooking!
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