Freezing vs. Refrigerating: The Best Ways to Store Fresh Herbs So They Don’t Go Bad

Fresh herbs can elevate any dish with their vibrant flavors and aromas, but they also tend to wilt and spoil quickly if not stored properly. Should you refrigerate them, or is freezing a better option? The answer depends on the type of herb and how you plan to use it. Here’s a complete guide to keeping fresh herbs at their best for as long as possible.

Refrigerating Fresh Herbs

For herbs you plan to use within a week, refrigeration is usually the best method. However, different herbs require slightly different treatments to stay fresh.

Soft Herbs (Basil, Cilantro, Parsley, Dill, Mint)

Method 1: Jar with Water

1. Trim the stems and place the herbs in a glass of water, like a bouquet of flowers.
2. Cover loosely with a plastic bag to retain humidity.
3. Store in the fridge, except for basil, which should be kept at room temperature to prevent blackening.

Method 2: Damp Paper Towel

1. Wrap unwashed herbs in a damp paper towel.
2. Place them in an airtight container or resealable bag.
3. Keep in the fridge’s crisper drawer for maximum freshness.

Hard Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Sage, Oregano)

Wrap in a dry paper towel and store in a resealable bag in the fridge.

These herbs have lower moisture content and don’t need the same humidity levels as soft herbs.

Freezing Fresh Herbs

If you want to store herbs for longer than a week, freezing is the best way to preserve their flavor. There are multiple effective freezing methods depending on how you plan to use the herbs.

Method 1: Whole Leaves (Best for Sturdy Herbs Like Rosemary, Thyme, and Sage)

1. Spread the leaves on a baking sheet and freeze them individually.
2. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag once frozen to prevent clumping.

This method preserves the structure of the leaves, making them ideal for garnishes or roasting.

Method 2: Ice Cube Trays (Best for Basil, Cilantro, Parsley, and Mint)

1. Chop the herbs and place them into ice cube trays.
2. Cover with water or olive oil and freeze.
3. Pop out cubes as needed to add to soups, stews, and sauces.

Method 3: Herb Paste (Great for Pestos and Sauces)

1. Blend herbs with olive oil into a paste.
2. Freeze in small portions using ice cube trays or a silicone mold.
3. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for easy use in cooking.

Which Method is Best?

• Refrigeration is best for short-term use and maintaining fresh texture.
• Freezing is ideal for long-term storage and preserving flavors for cooking.

Bonus Tip: Drying Herbs

For herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary, drying is another great option. Hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area, then store them in an airtight container once dried.

Final Thoughts

The best way to store fresh herbs depends on how soon you plan to use them. Refrigeration keeps them fresh for quick use, while freezing ensures you always have herbs on hand for months. By following these methods, you’ll reduce waste, save money, and always have fresh herbs ready to enhance your cooking!