Should You Wash Cilantro

You should wash cilantro before using it in any recipe.
 
Yes, you should wash cilantro because it grows close to the ground and can carry dirt, sand, and even tiny bugs.
 
I know it feels like an extra step when you just want to chop and toss it into your salsa.
 
But washing cilantro is one of the easiest ways to keep your food safe and tasting fresh.
 
In this post, we will look at why you should wash cilantro, the best way to wash cilantro, and whether you should wash cilantro that comes in a bag or from a restaurant.
 
Let’s get to it.
 

Why You Should Wash Cilantro

You should wash cilantro because the way it grows makes it a magnet for grit and germs.
 
Here is why washing cilantro matters so much:
 

1. Cilantro Grows Low to the Ground

Cilantro grows in leafy clumps right near the soil.
 
That low-growing habit means rain, sprinklers, and wind can splash dirt and sand onto the leaves and stems.
 
When you buy a bunch of cilantro at the store, that field dust and grit often travel home with it.
 
So you should wash cilantro to get rid of all that hidden dirt.
 

2. Cilantro Can Harbor Bugs and Slugs

Because cilantro sits close to the earth, tiny insects, slugs, and even small snails love to hide in its leaves.
 
If you have ever soaked a bunch of cilantro and seen little specks float to the top, you know exactly what I mean.
 
Washing cilantro well gives those critters a chance to float away instead of landing in your salad.
 
That is another big reason you should wash cilantro every single time.
 

3. Cilantro Can Carry Foodborne Germs

Fresh produce like cilantro can pick up bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella from soil, water, or handling.
 
You should wash cilantro under running water to help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
 
The CDC and FDA both recommend washing fresh herbs and vegetables before you eat them.
 
So if you have been asking should you wash cilantro, the answer is a clear yes for your safety.
 

4. Washing Cilantro Improves Taste and Texture

Even a little grit can ruin the texture of your guacamole or tacos.
 
When you wash cilantro properly, you get clean, crisp leaves that taste bright and fresh.
 
Nobody wants a crunchy mouthful of sand in the middle of a soft taco.
 
So you should wash cilantro to keep every bite smooth and enjoyable.
 

How to Wash Cilantro the Right Way

Now that you know you should wash cilantro, let’s talk about how to wash cilantro without bruising the leaves.
 
It is simple, but a few small steps make a big difference.
 

1. Fill a Bowl With Cold Water

Start by filling a large bowl with cold water.
 
Cold water helps keep cilantro crisp while you wash cilantro thoroughly.
 
Do not use warm water because it can wilt the delicate leaves.
 

2. Swish the Cilantro Gently

Cut the bottom stems off your bunch of cilantro and dunk the leaves into the water.
 
Swish them around gently with your hands to loosen dirt and sand.
 
You will often see grit sink to the bottom of the bowl, which is exactly what you want.
 
Never scrub cilantro hard because the leaves bruise easily.
 

3. Rinse Under Running Water

After the bowl soak, hold the cilantro under cool running water.
 
Rinse the leaves and stems well, turning them so water reaches every part.
 
This step is the final rinse that gets rid of anything the soak loosened.
 
If your cilantro was especially sandy, repeat the soak and rinse one more time.
 

4. Dry Cilantro Before You Chop

Wet cilantro turns soggy in recipes and can water down your salsa.
 
Pat the leaves dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
 
You can also use a salad spinner on the lowest setting to dry cilantro fast.
 
Dry cilantro also chops more cleanly and stores better if you have leftovers.
 

Should You Wash Cilantro From a Bag or Restaurant?

Yes, you should still wash cilantro even if it says pre-washed on the bag.
 
Triple-washed cilantro may be cleaner, but it is not guaranteed to be germ-free.
 
Washing cilantro from a bag takes just a minute and gives you peace of mind.
 
As for restaurant cilantro, that is out of your hands, and most kitchens do rinse their herbs.
 
When you cook at home, though, you should wash cilantro every time before it hits the plate.
 

1. Pre-Washed Cilantro Still Needs a Rinse

Bagged cilantro labeled pre-washed has gone through a rinse cycle at the farm.
 
But studies show that pre-washed greens can still carry bacteria.
 
So you should wash cilantro from a bag just like you would wash a fresh bunch.
 

2. Storing Cilantro After You Wash It

If you wash cilantro ahead of time, dry it well before storing.
 
Wrap dry cilantro in paper towels, then place it in a zip-top bag in the fridge.
 
This keeps cilantro fresh for up to a week so you can grab and chop anytime.
 

So, Should You Wash Cilantro?

You should wash cilantro before you eat it, every single time.
 
Cilantro grows low to the ground, so it picks up dirt, bugs, and germs that you do not want on your plate.
 
A quick soak in cold water, a gentle rinse, and a good pat dry is all it takes.
 
So the next time you wonder should you wash cilantro, remember that a one-minute rinse keeps your tacos, salsas, and salads safe and delicious.
 
Now go wash that cilantro and enjoy every fresh, clean bite.