What To Do With Excess Fresh Cilantro

Excess fresh cilantro can be put to good use in several creative and practical ways instead of letting it wilt in the fridge.
 
If you’ve ever wondered what to do with excess fresh cilantro after a big recipe, you’re not alone.
 
This fragrant herb is a staple in many kitchens, and having too much of it is actually a great problem to have.
 
Below, we’ll explore what to do with excess fresh cilantro so you can enjoy every last leaf without waste.
 
Whether you have a small bunch or a massive harvest, there are plenty of ways to use up that excess fresh cilantro.
 
Let’s dive into the best options for using your extra cilantro.
 

Why You Should Use Up Excess Fresh Cilantro

Using up excess fresh cilantro is worth the effort because this herb is packed with flavor and nutrients.
 
When you have excess fresh cilantro, you can transform it into sauces, pestos, and more.
 
Here are the main reasons to make the most of your extra cilantro.
 

1. Cilantro Adds Bright, Fresh Flavor

Excess fresh cilantro can brighten up almost any dish with its citrusy, peppery notes.
 
A handful of cilantro can turn a bland soup or salad into something special.
 
That’s why finding ways to use excess fresh cilantro is so rewarding.
 

2. It’s Nutritious and Versatile

Fresh cilantro is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants.
 
When you have excess fresh cilantro, you’re sitting on a nutritional goldmine.
 
You can blend it into drinks, chop it into salsas, or fold it into wraps.
 

3. It Saves Money and Reduces Waste

Using excess fresh cilantro means you’re not throwing away money.
 
A big bunch of cilantro can cost a few dollars, and letting it rot is a waste.
 
So figuring out what to do with excess fresh cilantro is smart for your wallet and the planet.
 

Creative Ways to Use Excess Fresh Cilantro

There are countless ways to use excess fresh cilantro, from simple to inventive.
 
Here are some of the best methods to handle that extra cilantro.
 

1. Make Cilantro Pesto

One of the best things to do with excess fresh cilantro is to whip up a cilantro pesto.
 
Blend excess fresh cilantro with garlic, nuts, olive oil, and a squeeze of lime.
 
This pesto keeps for a week in the fridge and freezes beautifully.
 
Use it on pasta, tacos, or grilled veggies.
 

2. Freeze Cilantro in Ice Cube Trays

Freezing is a fantastic answer to what to do with excess fresh cilantro.
 
Chop your excess fresh cilantro and pack it into ice cube trays with water or oil.
 
Once frozen, pop the cubes into a bag and use them in soups and stews.
 
This way, your excess fresh cilantro lasts for months.
 

3. Blend Into Sauces and Chutneys

Excess fresh cilantro shines in sauces like chimichurri or green chutney.
 
Simply pulse excess fresh cilantro with vinegar, garlic, and chili for a zesty sauce.
 
Drizzle it over meats, fish, or roasted potatoes.
 
These sauces let you enjoy excess fresh cilantro in a whole new way.
 

4. Dry or Dehydrate Cilantro

If you’re still stuck on what to do with excess fresh cilantro, try drying it.
 
Dry excess fresh cilantro in a dehydrator or a low oven until brittle.
 
Crush it and store in an airtight jar for later use.
 
Dried excess fresh cilantro works great in spice rubs and marinades.
 

5. Infuse Drinks and Cocktails

Another fun idea for excess fresh cilantro is to muddle it into drinks.
 
Excess fresh cilantro adds a refreshing kick to lemonades, mojitos, and margaritas.
 
Just blend excess fresh cilantro with lime and sugar for a vibrant simple syrup.
 
Your guests will love what you did with that excess fresh cilantro.
 

6. Add to Salads, Salsas, and Wraps

Toss excess fresh cilantro into any salad for an instant flavor boost.
 
Make a big batch of salsa with tomatoes, onions, and your excess fresh cilantro.
 
Or sprinkle excess fresh cilantro over tacos, burritos, and lettuce wraps.
 
The more you use, the less excess fresh cilantro goes to waste.
 

How to Store Excess Fresh Cilantro for Later

If you can’t use your excess fresh cilantro right away, proper storage is key.
 
Here’s how to keep excess fresh cilantro fresh for as long as possible.
 

1. Refrigerate in a Jar or Glass

Trim the stems of your excess fresh cilantro and place it in a glass of water.
 
Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate.
 
Change the water every couple of days, and your excess fresh cilantro stays crisp.
 

2. Wrap in Damp Paper Towels

Lay excess fresh cilantro on a damp paper towel and roll it up gently.
 
Place the roll in a zip-top bag and store it in the crisper drawer.
 
This method keeps excess fresh cilantro happy for up to a week.
 

3. Blanch and Freeze for Long-Term Storage

For long-term storage of excess fresh cilantro, blanching works wonders.
 
Dip excess fresh cilantro in boiling water for a few seconds, then shock it in ice water.
 
Squeeze out the moisture, chop, and freeze in bags.
 
Now your excess fresh cilantro is ready for future recipes.
 

So, What to Do With Excess Fresh Cilantro?

Excess fresh cilantro can be turned into pesto, frozen into cubes, blended into sauces, dried, or infused into drinks.
 
The key is to act before your excess fresh cilantro wilts and loses its vibrant flavor.
 
With these ideas, you’ll never again wonder what to do with excess fresh cilantro.
 
So next time you have too much, embrace the abundance and get creative in the kitchen.