How To Store Fresh Herbs So They Stay Fresh!

Got fresh herbs and not sure how to store them? Herbs can be difficult to store: throw them in the produce drawer and some herbs wilt in a day or so. Keep them on the counter, and they’re only good for a few hours! What’s the best way to save them for days? Here’s how to store fresh herbs so they last for up to 1 week or more.

Types of fresh herbs:

There are two major categories of fresh herbs: tender herbs and hard herbs. Tender herbs have a tender stem and leaves, like basil, parsley, and cilantro. Hard herbs have a woody stem, like rosemary, oregano or thyme.

There are two main methods for how to store these herbs. The jar method works for most tender herbs, and the bag method works for most hard herbs. However there are some tender herbs (chives, tarragon and dill) where you would use the bag method. Use this as a rule of thumb!

How to store fresh herbs: jar method

The jar method for storing fresh herbs is best for tender herbs like cilantro, mint, basil, and parsley. Placing the cut ends in water keeps the plants strong for much longer than placing it the produce drawer. Avoid storing these herbs in plastic bags, which will make them wilt more quickly. Here’s what to do:

  • Use a large canning jar with lid, or any type of glass jar that you may have recycled

  • Add a few inches water inside and add the herbs. Place the cut sides of the herbs into the water

  • Attach the lid and store in your fridge

How to store fresh herbs: bag method

The bag method for how to store fresh herbs is best for woody herbs like oregano, thyme, rosemary, and sage, and tender herbs like chives, dill, and tarragon. These herbs are harder to get to stand up in a jar, because their stems are too delicate. Here’s what to do for this type of herbs:

  • Wrap the herbs in a damp paper towel, cheesecloth or thin flour sack-type towel

  • Place in a plastic bag, seal it completely, and place in the refrigerator

How long does this keep herbs fresh?

These methods for storing fresh herbs varies based on the freshness of the herb when you buy it and your fridge. Most of the herbs above should stay fresh about 1 week or potentially even more for the jar method. Either way, we recommend using your fresh herbs as soon as possible, as the flavor and nutrient profile is best!

Peggy Van Cleef