How To Best Store Cilantro And Parsley

The best way to store cilantro and parsley is to treat them like fresh flowers by trimming the stems and placing them in a jar of water.
 
This simple method keeps cilantro and parsley fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
 
If you’ve been frustrated by wilted herbs after just a few days, you’re not alone.
 
Storing cilantro and parsley properly comes down to moisture control, temperature, and airflow.
 
In this post, we’ll cover the best ways to store cilantro and parsley so they stay vibrant and flavorful.
 
Let’s keep your herbs fresh.
 

Why Storing Cilantro and Parsley Correctly Matters

Storing cilantro and parsley correctly makes a huge difference in how long they last.
 
Here’s why:
 

1. These Herbs Are Delicate

Cilantro and parsley have thin, tender leaves that lose moisture fast.
 
Unlike hardy herbs such as rosemary or thyme, cilantro and parsley wilt quickly when exposed to air.
 
That’s why storing cilantro and parsley with a little moisture is so important.
 

2. Proper Storage Preserves Flavor

When you store cilantro and parsley the right way, you lock in those fresh, bright flavors.
 
Improper storage leads to yellowing, sliminess, and a loss of that signature taste.
 
So storing cilantro and parsley well means better meals all week.
 

3. It Saves You Money

Fresh herbs aren’t cheap, and tossing them after two days is painful.
 
Learning the best way to store cilantro and parsley means fewer grocery runs.
 
And who doesn’t love saving a few bucks while enjoying fresher food?
 

The Best Ways to Store Cilantro and Parsley

There are several great methods for storing cilantro and parsley.
 
Let’s break them down.
 

1. The Jar and Water Method

This is the gold standard for storing cilantro and parsley.
 
Start by trimming the stems about an inch.
 
Then place cilantro and parsley in a jar with an inch or two of water.
 
Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate.
 
Change the water every couple of days.
 
Storing cilantro and parsley this way keeps them crisp for up to two weeks.
 

2. The Damp Paper Towel Method

If jar space is tight, this method works beautifully for storing cilantro and parsley.
 
Lay cilantro and parsley on a slightly damp paper towel.
 
Roll them gently and place inside a zip-top bag.
 
Squeeze out excess air and seal.
 
Store cilantro and parsley in the crisper drawer for one to two weeks.
 

3. The Freezer Method for Long-Term Storage

If you can’t use your cilantro and parsley within two weeks, freeze them.
 
Chop cilantro and parsley finely and pack into ice cube trays.
 
Top with water or olive oil and freeze.
 
Once frozen, pop the cubes out and store them in a freezer bag.
 
This method for storing cilantro and parsley keeps them good for up to six months.
 

4. The Airtight Container Trick

Some people prefer storing cilantro and parsley in an airtight container.
 
Line the container with a dry paper towel.
 
Add dry cilantro and parsley, then seal.
 
Keep in the fridge and swap the towel if it gets damp.
 
This works well for storing cilantro and parsley for about a week.
 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Cilantro and Parsley

Even with good intentions, some habits ruin fresh herbs fast.
 
Here’s what to skip:
 

1. Washing Before Storing

Never wash cilantro and parsley before storing them.
 
Extra moisture speeds up decay.
 
Wash cilantro and parsley right before you use them instead.
 

2. Storing Near Ethylene Producers

Fruits like bananas and apples release ethylene gas.
 
This gas makes cilantro and parsley turn yellow faster.
 
Keep them away from these fruits when storing cilantro and parsley.
 

3. Leaving Them at Room Temperature

Cilantro and parsley belong in the fridge.
 
Room temperature causes cilantro and parsley to wilt within hours.
 
Always refrigerate when storing cilantro and parsley for lasting freshness.
 

4. Using Damaged Leaves

Remove any yellowed or slimy leaves before storing cilantro and parsley.
 
One bad leaf can spoil the whole bunch.
 
So sort through cilantro and parsley before you store them.
 

How Long Do Cilantro and Parsley Last?

With proper storage, cilantro and parsley last anywhere from one to two weeks in the fridge.
 
Frozen cilantro and parsley last up to six months.
 
And if you keep them in water on the counter, they’ll last about a week.
 
It all depends on how you store cilantro and parsley and how fresh they were when you bought them.
 

So, How Do You Best Store Cilantro and Parsley?

The best way to store cilantro and parsley is to trim the stems and keep them in a jar of water in the fridge.
 
This method keeps cilantro and parsley fresh for up to two weeks.
 
If you need more time, freezing cilantro and parsley in oil or water works great.
 
Just remember to avoid washing them early and keep them away from ethylene-producing fruits.
 
Hope this post has helped you with exploring the best ways of storing cilantro and parsley so they last longer and taste fresher.