While usually not the star of the plate, fresh cilantro adds something special to a wide range of dishes. “Cilantro is a leafy green herb used to add flavor to dishes of all kinds from flavoring guacamole to rice, sauces, and meats. Its also often added at the end of cooking as a fresh garnish,” says Patty Catalano, a professional recipe writer and tester.
The versatile, bright green herb has crunchy stems and delicate leaves, making it prone to wilting and drying out if you dont store it properly. “Once cilantro wilts, it doesnt really perk up again,” says Sophie Pennes, founder of Urban Farms LA, so proper storage is key to getting the most out of the flavorful herb. Check out our favorite products to keep produce fresh, from herbs to ripe fruit.
Pennes notes that if you want the longest-lasting cilantro, start with freshly picked. She recommends purchasing cilantro as close to the date youll need it as possible.
A vacuum-sealed plastic bag or zip-top freezer bag makes an effective storage container for frozen cilantro. Keep your freezer temperature at zero degrees Fahrenheit for the best results. Store frozen cilantro for up to six months before defrosting and using it in a recipe.
Here’s how to store cilantro The jar method involves submerging cilantro stems in water while the leaves, which stick out of the top like a bouquet, are covered with a bag. By Bonnie Photography/Getty Images Advertisement
One method that will help your fresh herbs last as long as possible is the jar method. After purchasing cilantro, Catalano recommends picking through the stems and discarding any bruised, blackened, or bent stems. This will help keep the rest of the bunch fresh. Trim the bottom half-inch of the stems using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to help them more readily soak up water.
Fill a mason jar or small glass with about an inch of water and stick the cilantro in so that the stems are submerged in water and the leaves are sticking out of the top like a bouquet. Place a clean plastic or zip-top bag over the top creating a makeshift terrarium and transfer to the fridge.
Fresh cilantro can last for two to three weeks using this method, especially if you change out the water every few days. Catalano notes that while the jar method is effective, “it takes up a lot of space in the fridge and Im always fearful of tipping over the open jar of water.”
Preserve Fresh Cilantro for Months
FAQ
Does frozen cilantro keep its flavor?
How do you preserve freeze cilantro?
How do you know when cilantro goes bad?
How long does cilantro last in the freezer?
When preserving cilantro in the freezer, you can extend the life of the herb by at least six months but up to a year. Technically, frozen cilantro can last in a freezer indefinitely, but quality does fade slightly over time.
What are the benefits of cilantro?
Cilantro also known as coriander is an annual herb in the family Apiaceae. All parts of the plant are edible including the fresh leaves and the dried seeds which can be used in cooking. The herb contains antioxidants which have been researched to provide health benefits in the form of reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, inflammation caused by obesity, seizure severity, raising energy levels, healthy hair, and skin.
Should cilantro be frozen?
Freezing extends the shelf life significantly and reduces food waste. Some methods call for drying the herb first, but that can lead to a loss of color and flavor. Instead, ensure it’s washed, then freeze when it’s dry. So if you’ve bought or grown too much cilantro, don’t be afraid to freeze it.
How do you preserve frozen cilantro?
The best way to ensure you maximize the longevity of frozen cilantro is by proper storage. Properly stored frozen herbs avoid the risk of freezer burn and overall protects the freshness you are trying to preserve. Keep the storage container sealed tight, and make sure you remove as much moisture as possible before the initial freeze.