Our Test Kitchen approves of these methods for storing fresh herbs when you need to extend their shelf life by just a couple of days in the refrigerator or for many weeks by drying the herbs.
Method 1: Hang in Bunches
Knowing how to dry herbs will keep you stocked year-round. Using 100%-cotton kitchen string like this cotton cooking twine ($7, Walmart), tie a few stems together. Hang the bundles upside down in a warm, dry place with good circulation until dry (about 5 to 14 days). The length of drying time will vary depending on humidity and herb type. Place dried herbs in an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Before using, crush dried herbs with your fingers to release their oils and bring out their flavor.
Method 2: Wrap
Wrap small bunches of fresh herbs in a damp paper towel and keep in an airtight resealable bag in the refrigerator. Storing herbs this way may extend the shelf life up to a week versus storing in produce bags from the grocery store. However, this method doesn’t work for preserving basil, which should be stored at room temperature.
Storing Herbs in an Herb Keeper
If your garden is overflowing and you’re constantly trying to figure out how to keep herbs fresh longer, you can invest in an herb keeper ($15, OXO). This small container helps maintain the proper humidity and hydration your fresh herbs need to thrive.
Method 3: Cover in Water
Trim ½ inch from the herb stems and place in a jar or cup with water. Loosely cover the leaves with a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator (except basil, which should be stored at room temperature). This method will extend the life of your fresh herbs a couple of days longer, potentially up to a week, than if you toss them into your produce drawer.
Method 4: Microwave
Place herbs in a single layer between two paper towels on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave for one minute on high, testing for dryness every 20 seconds. Timings will vary depending on herb type. Remove the dried leaves from the stems. Place dried herbs in an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Test Kitchen Tip: This drying method works best for woody-stemmed herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Delicate herbs such as mint, basil, and parsley can wither and turn brown. If you’re at the last resort or need delicate herbs in dried form, place them between damp paper towels using the microwave method above. Add fresh (or freshly-dried) herbs to all kinds of dishes, whether savory or sweet. See our tips on cooking with fresh herbs or dried herbs for inspiration. And take your herb-preserving skills further when you learn how to freeze herbs.
