How To Naturally Store Cilantro

You can naturally store cilantro by treating it like a fresh bouquet of herbs rather than just tossing it in the fridge.
 
If you’ve ever wondered how to naturally store cilantro so it stays vibrant and flavorful for weeks, you’re in the right place.
 
The key to naturally storing cilantro is to keep the stems hydrated and the leaves dry at the same time.
 
This method mimics how cilantro grows in nature, which is why it works so well for naturally storing cilantro at home.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through the best ways to naturally store cilantro, from the bouquet method to freezing, so you can enjoy fresh cilantro anytime.
 
Let’s dive into the simple steps for naturally storing cilantro.
 

How to Naturally Store Cilantro

Naturally storing cilantro starts with understanding what makes it wilt so fast.
 
Cilantro leaves lose moisture quickly, and if the stems dry out, the whole bunch collapses within a day or two.
 
That’s why naturally storing cilantro means focusing on the stems first.
 
Here are the most effective ways to naturally store cilantro so it lasts.
 

1. The Bouquet Method for Naturally Storing Cilantro

Trim the bottom of the cilantro stems with a sharp knife, just like you would with fresh flowers.
 
Place the bunch in a glass or jar filled with an inch or two of cold water.
 
Loosely cover the leaves with a plastic bag or a reusable produce bag to trap humidity without suffocating them.
 
Change the water every couple of days, and your cilantro will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
 
This is one of the simplest ways of naturally storing cilantro because it keeps the herb alive and drinking.
 

2. The Damp Paper Towel Trick

If you don’t have space for a jar, naturally storing cilantro with a damp paper towel works great.
 
Lay the cilantro on a slightly damp paper towel, then roll it up gently.
 
Place the roll inside a zip-top bag or an airtight container and store it in the fridge’s crisper drawer.
 
The paper towel provides just enough moisture to keep the leaves from drying out.
 
This method for naturally storing cilantro keeps it fresh for about a week to ten days.
 

3. Freezing Cilantro for Long-Term Storage

When you have more cilantro than you can use, naturally storing it in the freezer is a smart move.
 
Chop the cilantro and place it into ice cube trays.
 
Cover the chopped cilantro with water or olive oil and freeze.
 
Once frozen, pop the cubes into a freezer bag and use them in soups, stews, and sauces.
 
Naturally storing cilantro this way keeps it good for up to six months.
 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Naturally Storing Cilantro

Even with the best intentions, a few mistakes can ruin your efforts at naturally storing cilantro.
 
Here’s what to watch out for.
 

1. Washing Before Storing

Never wash cilantro before you store it.
 
Excess moisture on the leaves invites mold and rot.
 
Wash cilantro only right before you use it, not before naturally storing it.
 

2. Storing Near Ethylene-Producing Fruits

Fruits like bananas, apples, and tomatoes release ethylene gas.
 
This gas speeds up ripening and can turn your cilantro yellow and slimy.
 
Keep cilantro away from these fruits when naturally storing it in the fridge.
 

3. Leaving Cilantro at Room Temperature Too Long

Cilantro is delicate and wilts fast in warm air.
 
If you’re not using it within a few hours, get it into the fridge or a cool spot.
 
Naturally storing cilantro means respecting its need for cool, humid conditions.
 

Tips to Keep Cilantro Fresh Longer Naturally

Want to stretch the life of your cilantro even further?
 
Try these extra tips for naturally storing cilantro.
 

1. Use a Salad Spinner Before Storing

If you must wash cilantro before storing, dry it thoroughly with a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel.
 
Any lingering moisture will shorten its shelf life.
 
Dry cilantro is happy cilantro when it comes to naturally storing it.
 

2. Store in a Glass Container Instead of Plastic

Glass containers don’t trap odors or stains like plastic does.
 
They also maintain a more consistent humidity level.
 
For naturally storing cilantro, glass is a cleaner and safer choice.
 

3. Refresh Wilted Cilantro with an Ice Bath

If your cilantro looks a little sad, trim the stems and place them in a bowl of ice water for 15 minutes.
 
The cold water plumps up the leaves and revives the bunch.
 
Then pat dry and continue naturally storing it using your favorite method.
 

So, How Do You Naturally Store Cilantro?

You naturally store cilantro by keeping the stems in water, using a damp paper towel, or freezing it for later.
 
Avoid washing it too early, keep it away from ethylene-producing fruits, and always store it in a cool, humid environment.
 
With these simple methods for naturally storing cilantro, you can enjoy fresh, flavorful cilantro for weeks instead of days.
 
Give these tips a try and say goodbye to slimy, yellow cilantro forever.