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The best way to store cilantro in the fridge is to treat it like a bouquet of fresh flowers.
Yes, you heard that right, and this simple trick can keep your cilantro fresh for up to two weeks.
If you’ve ever wondered how to best store cilantro in the fridge so it doesn’t turn into a slimy yellow mess, you’re in the right place.
Cilantro is one of those herbs that can go from perky and fragrant to wilted and sad within a day or two if you don’t store it right.
In this post, we’ll look at the best ways to store cilantro in the fridge, how to prep it before storing, and what mistakes to avoid.
Let’s dive in.
How to Best Store Cilantro in the Fridge
Storing cilantro in the fridge the right way comes down to two main methods, and both work really well.
You can either keep the stems in water like a bouquet, or wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel and seal them in a bag.
Each method has its own benefits depending on how soon you plan to use your cilantro.
1. The Bouquet Method With a Jar of Water
This is my favorite way to store cilantro in the fridge because it keeps the herb hydrated and upright.
Start by trimming the bottom stems of your cilantro bunch with a sharp knife.
Fill a mason jar or a tall glass with an inch or two of cold water.
Place the cilantro stems into the water, making sure the leaves stay above the water line.
Cover the top loosely with a plastic bag and secure it with a rubber band.
Change the water every couple of days, and your cilantro will stay fresh for a week or even longer.
2. The Damp Paper Towel Method
If you don’t have room for a jar in your fridge, this method for storing cilantro works just as well.
Lay out a few sheets of paper towel and lightly dampen them with water.
Spread your cilantro leaves in a single layer across the towel.
Roll the towel up gently and place it inside a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container.
Push out as much air as possible before sealing, then store it in the crisper drawer.
This keeps the cilantro humid but not soaked, which is the sweet spot for freshness.
3. Freezing Cilantro for Long-Term Storage
If you have more cilantro than you can use in two weeks, freezing is a great option.
Chop the cilantro finely and pack it into an ice cube tray.
Top each cube with water or olive oil and freeze until solid.
Once frozen, pop the cubes into a freezer bag and use them whenever a recipe calls for fresh cilantro.
Just know that frozen cilantro loses its crisp texture, so it’s best for cooked dishes rather than garnishes.
How to Prep Cilantro Before Storing It in the Fridge
How you prep cilantro before storing it in the fridge makes a big difference in how long it lasts.
Here’s what to do before you store cilantro in your fridge.
1. Pick Out Damaged Leaves
Start by removing any yellowed, brown, or slimy leaves from the bunch.
Those damaged leaves release ethylene gas, which speeds up spoilage for the rest of the cilantro.
A quick once-over now saves you from finding a rotten mess later.
2. Don’t Wash Until You’re Ready to Use It
This is a big one, and a lot of people get it wrong.
Washing cilantro before you store it in the fridge adds extra moisture that encourages mold and rot.
Instead, wait until you’re about to cook or garnish with it, then give it a quick rinse and pat it dry.
3. Trim the Stems
Trimming the ends of the stems helps the cilantro absorb water if you’re using the bouquet method.
Use a sharp knife rather than scissors, since a clean cut allows the stems to drink more easily.
Cut about half an inch off the bottom before placing the bunch in water.
Common Mistakes When You Store Cilantro in the Fridge
Even with the right method, a few mistakes can ruin your cilantro fast.
Avoid these common pitfalls when you store cilantro in the fridge.
1. Storing It Bone Dry
Cilantro needs some humidity to stay fresh, so storing it completely dry in a sealed bag will cause it to wilt quickly.
That’s why the damp paper towel method works so well.
2. Storing It Soaking Wet
On the flip side, too much water leads to slimy, rotten cilantro.
Always shake off excess moisture before you store cilantro in the fridge.
3. Leaving It Near Ethylene-Producing Fruits
Fruits like apples, bananas, and tomatoes release ethylene gas that speeds up spoiling.
Keep your cilantro away from them in the fridge to help it last longer.
4. Storing It in the Wrong Spot in the Fridge
The crisper drawer is your best friend here because it controls humidity.
Storing cilantro on a shelf near the back of the fridge can cause it to freeze and turn mushy.
So, How to Best Store Cilantro in the Fridge?
The best way to store cilantro in the fridge is to keep the stems in a jar of water or wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel inside a sealed bag.
Both methods keep your cilantro fresh for up to two weeks when done right.
Avoid washing it beforehand, skip the ethylene-producing neighbors, and always use the crisper drawer.
With these tips, you’ll never have to toss another sad bunch of cilantro again.