ShelfLife
How long do fresh herbs last?
Most fresh herbs keep 7 to 10 days in the fridge from purchase. Basil is the exception: keep it on the counter with its stems in water, where it lasts about 5 days. FoodKeeper gives fresh parsley only 2 to 3 days in the fridge.
| Food | Fridge | Freezer | Pantry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh herbs | 7–10 daysfrom purchase | 1–2 monthsfrom purchase | — |
| Fresh basilCounter: stems in water. The fridge darkens the leaves. | 10 days | — | 5 days |
| Fresh parsley | 2–3 days | 3–4 months | — |
Fridge at 4 °C (40 °F) or colder, freezer at −18 °C (0 °F). Freezer times are for best quality: food kept frozen stays safe, but slowly loses taste and texture. These times are USDA guidance, not a guarantee. When in doubt, throw it out.
How to tell if herbs have gone bad
- Slimy, black or dark green, wet-looking leaves.
- Mold, or a musty, rotten smell instead of a fresh scent.
- Dry, brittle leaves have lost flavor but aren't spoiled; wilted ones can often be revived in cold water.
How to store fresh herbs
- Treat tender herbs like flowers: trim the stems and stand them in a glass of water. Parsley, cilantro, mint and dill go in the fridge, loosely covered with a bag; basil stays on the counter, out of the sun.
- Wrap woody herbs like rosemary, thyme and sage in a slightly damp paper towel and keep them in a bag or container in the fridge.
- Wash herbs just before use, and dry them well.
- Change the water every couple of days.
Can you freeze fresh herbs?
Yes. Chop them and freeze them in ice cube trays covered with olive oil, melted butter or water, then pop the cubes into a bag. USDA guidance gives frozen herbs 1 to 2 months for best quality, and parsley 3 to 4 months. They go straight into sauces, soups and stews. Frozen herbs lose their texture, so they're for cooking, not garnish.
Questions
Should basil go in the fridge?
Not if you can help it: the cold turns its leaves black. Keep it on the counter with the stems in water, like a bouquet.
How long do dried herbs last?
Dried herbs keep 1 to 2 years in a sealed jar in a cool, dark cupboard, though they slowly lose flavor.
How do you revive wilted herbs?
Trim the stems and soak the herbs in ice water for 15 to 30 minutes.
Add herbs to ShelfLife when you buy a bunch, and get a reminder to use them up.
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Storage times: USDA FoodKeeper (Food Safety and Inspection Service), public domain. Text by ShelfLife.