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You can store fresh dill and cilantro for up to two weeks by treating them like fresh flowers and keeping them in water.
If you simply toss fresh dill and cilantro into the crisper drawer, they’ll likely turn to slime within a few days.
But with a little know-how, learning how to store fresh dill and cilantro properly can keep them perky and flavorful for much longer.
In this post, we’ll walk through the best ways to store fresh dill and cilantro, from the fridge to the freezer, so you can stop wasting money on herbs that go bad too fast.
Let’s dive in.
How to Store Fresh Dill and Cilantro in the Refrigerator
The fridge is the best place to store fresh dill and cilantro if you plan to use them within a week or two.
The key is to keep the stems hydrated and the leaves dry.
Here are the most effective methods for storing fresh dill and cilantro in the fridge.
1. The Bouquet Method (Water in a Jar)
This is my favorite way to store fresh dill and cilantro because it mimics how the herbs grow.
Trim the bottom stems of your dill or cilantro and place them in a jar with an inch or two of water.
Cover the leaves loosely with a plastic bag and secure it with a rubber band.
Change the water every couple of days, and your herbs will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
This method works wonders when you need to store fresh dill and cilantro for a big recipe later in the week.
2. The Damp Paper Towel Method
If you don’t have a jar handy, you can still store fresh dill and cilantro using paper towels.
Lay the herbs on a slightly damp paper towel, roll them up gently, and place the roll inside a zip-top bag.
Press out most of the air before sealing the bag.
This method keeps the herbs from drying out while preventing excess moisture from causing rot.
It’s a simple way to store fresh dill and cilantro if you’re short on counter space.
3. The Airtight Container Trick
Another great option to store fresh dill and cilantro is using an airtight container.
Line the container with a dry paper towel, add your herbs, and top with another paper towel.
Seal the lid and pop it in the fridge.
The paper towels absorb excess moisture, which helps the herbs last longer.
Just remember to swap out the towels if they get too wet.
How to Store Fresh Dill and Cilantro for Longer Periods
Sometimes you buy a huge bunch and know you won’t use it all in a week.
That’s when you need to store fresh dill and cilantro using methods that extend their shelf life even further.
1. Freezing in Olive Oil or Water
Freezing is a fantastic way to store fresh dill and cilantro for months.
Chop the herbs finely and pack them into ice cube trays.
Cover with olive oil or water and freeze.
Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.
When you’re ready to cook, just drop a cube into your pan or soup.
This is my go-to trick to store fresh dill and cilantro when I have more than I can use.
2. Freezing Whole Sprigs
If you prefer to store fresh dill and cilantro as whole sprigs, freezing works for that too.
Spread the clean, dry sprigs on a baking sheet and freeze them individually.
Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag.
They won’t be great for garnishes, but they’re perfect for cooked dishes.
This method lets you store fresh dill and cilantro without chopping them first.
3. Drying Your Herbs
Drying is another way to store fresh dill and cilantro, though it changes their flavor and texture.
Hang small bundles upside down in a cool, dark place or use a food dehydrator.
Once completely dry, crumble the leaves and store them in airtight jars.
Dried dill and cilantro work well in soups, stews, and rubs.
Just know that drying isn’t the best way to store fresh dill and cilantro if you want that bright, fresh taste.
Common Mistakes When You Store Fresh Dill and Cilantro
Even with the best intentions, a few common mistakes can ruin your herbs fast.
Avoid these pitfalls when you store fresh dill and cilantro.
1. Washing Before Storing
Never wash your herbs before you store fresh dill and cilantro.
Excess moisture is the enemy of fresh herbs.
Wait until you’re ready to use them, then give them a quick rinse and pat them dry.
This one tip alone can make a huge difference in how long your herbs last.
2. Storing Them Near Ethylene Producers
Keep your herbs away from fruits like bananas, apples, and tomatoes.
These release ethylene gas, which speeds up spoilage.
If you want to store fresh dill and cilantro successfully, give them their own space in the fridge.
3. Leaving Them at Room Temperature Too Long
Fresh dill and cilantro will wilt quickly if left out on the counter.
If you’re not using them right away, get them into the fridge or freezer as soon as possible.
The longer they sit out, the faster they lose their flavor and crispness.
So, How Do You Store Fresh Dill and Cilantro?
You can store fresh dill and cilantro for up to two weeks by treating them like fresh flowers and keeping them in water.
The bouquet method, damp paper towel trick, and airtight container approach all work well for short-term storage.
For longer periods, freezing in oil or water or drying your herbs are excellent options.
Just avoid washing them too early and keep them away from ethylene-producing fruits.
With these tips, you’ll always know how to store fresh dill and cilantro so they stay vibrant and ready to use whenever you need them.