You buy a fresh bunch of cilantro with big plans for guacamole, curries, and saladsโbut by the time you reach for it a few days later, itโs already a sad, wilted mess.
Fresh herbs like cilantro bring fantastic flavor to your dishes, but keeping them fresh can be challenging.ย The good news? You can prolong their shelf life with a few simple storage tips and keep them looking (and tasting) as good as new.
This guide covers the best practices for storing fresh herbs like cilantro, so your herbs stay vibrant and ready for all your culinary creations. Letโs dive in!
Why Proper Herb Storage Matters?
Fresh herbs, especially delicate ones like cilantro, are highly perishable. Hereโs why proper storage is essential:
- Retains Flavor and Aroma: Fresh herbs have delicate essential oils that give them their signature flavors and scents. Proper storage helps retain these qualities for a longer period.
- Reduces Food Waste: By extending the shelf life of your herbs, you can avoid tossing wilted greens and save money.
- Enhances Cooking Experience: Fresh, crisp herbs elevate your cooking, and keeping them in prime condition ensures you always have flavor-packed ingredients at hand.
With these benefits in mind, letโs get into the best ways to keep cilantro and other fresh herbs fresh and ready to use.
Related Post: The Perfect Herb Storage Containers to Keep Cilantro & Other Herbs
Best Practices for Storing Fresh Herbs Like Cilantro
Proper storage is key to extending the life of your fresh herbs. So here are some best practices to store fresh herbs like cilantro:
1. Store Cilantro in the Refrigerator Using a Jar Method
One of the most effective ways to keep cilantro fresh is the jar method. This technique mimics how youโd keep flowers fresh in a vase and is perfect for delicate herbs with tender stems like cilantro, parsley, and dill.
How to Use the Jar Method:
- Trim the Stems: Trim about half an inch from the bottom of the cilantro stems to allow them to absorb water better.
- Place in a Jar with Water: Fill a glass jar with about an inch of water and place the cilantro stems in the jar, similar to arranging flowers.
- Cover with a Plastic Bag: Loosely cover the entire jar and cilantro bunch with a plastic bag to create a mini-greenhouse effect.
- Refrigerate: Place the jar in the fridge. Change the water every 2-3 days to keep it fresh.
Tip: Make sure the leaves are dry before placing them in the jar. Wet leaves are more likely to rot, which can spoil the entire bunch.
2. Use a Damp Paper Towel and Plastic Bag
The damp paper towel method is a tried-and-true way to store cilantro if you donโt have room in the fridge for a jar. This method keeps the cilantro hydrated but not overly damp, which helps prolong freshness.
Steps for the Damp Paper Towel Method:
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the cilantro gently under cold water, then pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Wrap in a Damp Paper Towel: Lightly dampen a paper towel and wrap it around the cilantro bunch.
- Place in a Plastic Bag: Slide the wrapped cilantro into a plastic bag or reusable storage bag, leaving a small opening to allow for air circulation.
- Refrigerate: Store the bag in the crisper drawer of your fridge for the best results.
3. Freeze Cilantro for Long-Term Storage
If you have more cilantro than you can use in a week, freezing is an excellent option. While frozen cilantro wonโt work well as a garnish (it loses its crispness), itโs perfect for cooking, especially in soups, stews, and sauces.
How to Freeze Cilantro:
- Chop and Portion: Chop the cilantro and portion it into ice cube trays.
- Add Water or Olive Oil: Fill each compartment with water or olive oil to cover the cilantro. This helps preserve its flavor.
- Lebel Them: Label the freezer bag with the date. Frozen cilantro can last for up to three months, but the sooner you use it, the better it will taste.
- Freeze: Freeze the tray until solid, then pop the cubes out and store them in a freezer bag.
4. Dry Cilantro for an Easy Pantry Staple
Drying cilantro is another great option for long-term storage. While dried cilantro doesnโt have the same punch as fresh, itโs still handy to have on hand when you need a little extra flavor in your cooking.
How to Dry Cilantro:
- Air Dry: Bundle the cilantro stems together, tie them, and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place. Allow it to dry for about 1-2 weeks.
- Use an Oven: Spread the cilantro on a baking sheet and place it in an oven set to its lowest temperature for 1-2 hours.
- Store in an Airtight Container: Once dry, crumble the leaves and store them in an airtight container away from sunlight.
Note: Store dried cilantro in a cool, dark place. Exposure to light and heat can reduce its flavor over time.
5. Use a Herb Keeper
Herb keepers are specially designed storage containers that keep herbs fresh by controlling humidity and air circulation.

Itโs an excellent investment for those who cook with fresh herbs often, as they work well for a variety of herbs beyond cilantro, like basil, parsley, and mint.
How to Use a Herb Keeper:
- Add Water: Fill the base of the herb keeper with a small amount of water.
- Place Herbs in the Holder: Insert the cilantro into the herb keeper, ensuring that the stems are in contact with the water.
- Close and Refrigerate: Place the herb keeper in the fridge, changing the water every few days.
6. Try Using a Cloth Produce Bag
For those looking for an eco-friendly storage solution, cloth produce bags are a great option. These bags are breathable and help maintain the right level of humidity for herbs, keeping them fresh without using plastic.
How to Store Cilantro in a Cloth Bag:
- Rinse and Pat Dry: Wash the cilantro gently and remove excess water with a paper towel.
- Place in the Bag: Place the cilantro inside the cloth bag. The fabric helps regulate moisture and keeps the herbs fresh.
- Store in the Fridge: Place the bag in the crisper drawer of your fridge for optimal freshness.
Important: Some prefer to add a damp paper towel to the cloth bag to keep the herbs extra hydrated. Check the bag every few days and replace the towel if it dries out.
7. Make a Cilantro Pesto
When you find yourself with an abundance of cilantro, making cilantro pesto is a delicious way to preserve it. Pesto is freezer-friendly and can be used in pasta, on sandwiches, or as a flavor boost for soups and stews.
Simple Cilantro Pesto Recipe:
- Blend Ingredients: Combine fresh cilantro, garlic, olive oil, nuts (like almonds or walnuts), and a dash of salt in a food processor.
- Store in an Airtight Container: Pour the pesto into a small jar or container, covering the top with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent browning.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: Store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning.
Pro Tip: Freeze pesto in small cubes so you can use just the right amount when you need it. Itโs a fantastic way to avoid waste and add flavor to your dishes.
Keep Your Cilantro Fresh and Flavorful
Keeping cilantro fresh doesnโt have to be a challenge. With these methodsโfrom the jar technique to freezing or making pestoโyou can extend the life of your cilantro and reduce food waste.
Each method is simple, effective, and ensures you always have fresh herbs at your fingertips when inspiration strikes in the kitchen.
So go ahead, give these storage practices a try, and say goodbye to wilted cilantro! Your cooking will be brighter, your fridge fresher, and your cilantro ready for all those delicious recipes.
Happy herb storing!
FAQs
How long can I keep fresh herbs in the refrigerator?
The lifespan of fresh herbs in the refrigerator can vary depending on the type of herb and storage method. Generally, they can last for several days to a week.
Can I freeze fresh herbs?
Yes, you can freeze fresh herbs by pureeing them or freezing them whole.
How can I prevent herbs from wilting in the refrigerator?
Store herbs in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing them to direct sunlight. Wrap them in a damp paper towel or store them in water to maintain moisture.
Can I freeze fresh herbs in water?
While you can freeze herbs in water, it’s not recommended as the ice can damage the delicate leaves. It’s better to freeze them in a paste or dry them.
How can I tell if my herbs are past their prime?
Signs of wilting, discoloration, or a strong, off-putting odor indicate that the herbs are past their prime.