How To Store Cilantro Properly

Storing cilantro properly starts with treating it like a bouquet of fresh herbs rather than a forgotten bag of greens.
 
When you store cilantro the right way, it can stay fresh and vibrant for up to two to three weeks in your fridge.
 
If you simply toss it in the crisper drawer as-is, though, it’ll likely turn slimy or yellow within just a few days.
 
The key to storing cilantro properly is managing moisture, airflow, and temperature all at once.
 
In this post, we’ll cover the best ways to store cilantro, the mistakes that ruin it fast, and how to keep cilantro fresh for as long as possible.
 

How to Store Cilantro Properly

Storing cilantro properly comes down to a few simple methods, and each one works depending on how soon you plan to use it.
 

1. The Bouquet Method (Best for Long-Term Storage)

Storing cilantro properly for weeks starts with the bouquet method, which mimics how you’d treat fresh flowers.
 
Trim the bottom stems of your cilantro bunch with a sharp knife, then place the stems in a jar with an inch or two of cold water.
 
Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and secure it with a rubber band to trap humidity without suffocating the herb.
 
Change the water every couple of days, and your carefully stored cilantro will keep thriving for up to two weeks or more.
 

2. The Damp Paper Towel Method

If you want a faster way of storing cilantro properly, wrap the whole bunch in a slightly damp paper towel.
 
Then slide that wrapped cilantro into a zip-top bag or an airtight container before placing it in the fridge.
 
This method works because the paper towel regulates moisture while the bag keeps the cilantro from drying out.
 
Just make sure the towel isn’t soaking wet, since too much water is exactly what makes cilantro rot.
 

3. The Freezer Method for Longer Storage

When you’re storing cilantro properly for months rather than weeks, freezing is your best friend.
 
Chop the cilantro finely, then pack it into ice cube trays and cover it with water or olive oil.
 
Once frozen, pop the cilantro cubes into a freezer bag, and they’ll stay good for up to six months.
 
These frozen cilantro cubes are perfect for tossing straight into soups, stews, and sauces whenever you need them.
 

Common Mistakes That Ruin Stored Cilantro

Even when you think you’re storing cilantro properly, a few sneaky mistakes can still send it to the trash.
 

1. Washing Before Storing

Washing cilantro before you store it is one of the fastest ways to ruin it.
 
Extra water on the leaves encourages bacteria and mold, which turns your cilantro into a slimy mess.
 
Always wait to wash cilantro until right before you’re ready to use it.
 

2. Storing Cilantro Near Ethylene Producers

Cilantro is sensitive to ethylene gas, which fruits like bananas, apples, and tomatoes release naturally.
 
Keep your stored cilantro away from these fruits, or it’ll yellow and wilt much faster.
 

3. Leaving Cilantro at Room Temperature Too Long

Cilantro left out on the counter will wilt within hours, so refrigerate it as soon as you get home.
 
The only exception is the bouquet method, but even then, the jar belongs in the fridge.
 

How to Revive Wilted Cilantro

Sometimes cilantro looks sad even when you’ve been storing cilantro properly, but don’t toss it just yet.
 
Trim the stems and place the bunch in a glass of ice water for about 15 to 30 minutes.
 
The cold water plumps up the cells, and your cilantro will often perk right back up.
 
If the leaves are brown or slimy rather than just limp, though, it’s time to let that batch go.
 

So, How Do You Store Cilantro Properly?

Storing cilantro properly means keeping the stems hydrated, the leaves dry, and the whole bunch cold.
 
You can use the bouquet method with a jar of water, the damp paper towel trick, or freeze chopped cilantro in ice cube trays for months of use.
 
Avoid washing cilantro before storing it, keep it away from ethylene-producing fruits, and never leave it sitting out at room temperature.
 
With these simple habits, storing cilantro properly will keep your herb fresh, fragrant, and ready for salsa, soups, and everything in between.