Fresh herbs can completely transform the flavor of a dish. A few basil leaves or a sprig of thyme can elevate a microwave meal into a five-star feast. But as delicious as fresh herbs may be, they can wilt and go bad in the blink of an eye. That being said, there are ways to…
Use a Damp Paper Towel for Hardy Herbs
Hardy herbs such as oregano, rosemary, and thyme can survive for two to three weeks with this trick. Run a paper towel under water until damp, then wrap it around the entire herb. Place it inside an airtight vessel, such as a Ziploc bag or food storage container. This is an important step to follow as it prevents oxygen from coming into contact with the herbs, which causes them to brown. Put the container inside the fridge, and be sure to check the paper towel from time to time. If it begins to dry out, replace the towel with a newly dampened one.
Use the Bouquet Method for Soft Herbs
While the aforementioned method is ideal for extending the life of hardy herbs, the rules are different for soft herbs such as cilantro, mint, and parsley. First, wash and dry the herbs, patting them down with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Next, trim the bottom half inch of each stem and place the herbs in a tall glass with about an inch of water, like they’re a bouquet of flowers. Finally, cover the entire “bouquet” of herbs with a plastic bag (a produce bag from the grocery store will do), and then put it inside the refrigerator. This should keep those soft herbs fresh for several weeks longer.
Basil Lovers Take Note
While most herbs — both hardy and soft — can and should be stored in the refrigerator, there’s one major exception: basil. Basil is an herb that many chefs rely on, but refrigerating it will cause the leaves to wilt and turn brown extremely quickly. Here’s what you should do instead: Prepare the basil using the bouquet method above. Then, instead of putting the basil in the fridge, just leave it on the countertop at room temperature, preferably in an area without direct sunlight. This is the best way to prolong the life of your basil, allowing you to garnish pizza margherita and pad thai to your heart’s content.
