- Method 1: Herb Jar (Water Method)
- Trim the stems of fresh parsley and place the herb in a jar with about an inch of water, just like a bouquet of flowers.
- Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag, and place the jar in the refrigerator. This method helps keep the parsley hydrated and fresh for up to 1-2 weeks.
- Method 2: Paper Towel Method
- Lay the parsley leaves flat on a paper towel, gently roll the towel, and then place it in a plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator. This method will keep your parsley fresh for around 5-7 days.
2. Freezing Parsley:
Freezing parsley is an excellent way to store it long-term, especially if you have an abundant harvest. Here are two methods for freezing parsley:
- Freezing Whole Sprigs:
- Rinse and dry the parsley thoroughly. Then, lay the sprigs flat on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into an airtight freezer bag. This method helps preserve the fresh texture and flavor for up to 6 months.
- Freezing Parsley in Ice Cubes:
- Chop the parsley finely and place it in ice cube trays. Fill each cube with water or olive oil, then freeze. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. You can then easily pop out a cube whenever you need fresh parsley for your cooking. These cubes can last for up to 6 months in the freezer.
3. Drying Parsley:
Drying parsley is another great way to store it for long-term use, though the flavor may be slightly less intense than fresh parsley.
- Air Drying:
- Tie the stems of parsley in small bunches and hang them upside down in a dry, warm, and well-ventilated area, out of direct sunlight. Once the leaves are completely dry (usually 1-2 weeks), crumble them and store in an airtight container.
- Oven Drying:
- If you need a faster option, place the parsley on a baking sheet in a single layer. Set the oven to its lowest setting (around 100-110°F or 40°C), and leave the door slightly ajar. Check the leaves every 30 minutes, and once they’re dry and crisp, remove them and store in an airtight container.
