Cilantro is one of the more delicate fresh herbs and needs to be stored with a little TLC. But luckily, it’s so easy to keep your cilantro fresh for weeks by using one of these 3 simple storage methods! Whether previously chopped, or still whole in a bunch, you can save money and prevent waste by following a few quick tips.
If not handled properly, cilantro can turn on you… FAST!
And no one likes wasting money. Even if it’s from your garden, you’re throwing away your hard work!
That’s why I’ve come up with 3 different ways to store both whole bunches as well as chopped cilantro so you can cut down on waste and maximize freshness.
But a big thing you CANNOT miss: cilantro MUST be stored in the refrigerator in order to get the maximum amount of freshness. It wilts quickly when sitting out at room temperature for too long.
Should you rinse cilantro before storing?
This all depends on if you’re storing it whole or already chopped.
If storing it whole, with leaves and stems intact, you do not want to rinse it before storing.
If storing it already chopped, you will want to rinse it before chopping and subsequent storing, since you won’t be able to easily clean it once it’s cut.
3 Ways to Store Cilantro
1. Storing Whole Cilantro (Jar Method)
This is the best method to ensure your cilantro stays fresh for the longest amount of time!
Do NOT rinse the cilantro first. Start by trimming the very ends of the cilantro so they’ll sit evenly in the jar.
Simply place the entire bunch in a large glass mason jar. Add a couple of inches of water to the bottom, not more than halfway. You can either cover the entire bunch and jar with a bag, or leave open like a bouquet.
Keep the jar in the fridge for up to 1 to 2 weeks.
Note: Be SURE to replace the water every 3 to 5 days as it discolors.
2. Storing Whole Cilantro (Paper Towel Method)
Another option is using a paper towel and wrapping the cilantro in the fridge. This might be the better option if you’re accident prone and tend to spill!
Again, do not rinse the cilantro. Rather, set the bunch on a damp paper towel. Wrap the edges around the leaves and stems.
Place the wrapped cilantro in an airtight container or plastic bag and keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
3. Storing Chopped Cilantro
If you’ve chopped a bunch for a recipe and you have leftovers, no worries! There is a great way to store already cut up cilantro.
First, be sure the chopped cilantro is dry. Then, line an airtight container with paper towels. Spread the cilantro across the towels. Seal, then store in the fridge for up to 2 to 3 days.
Alternatively, you can spread it out across a couple of paper towels and gently roll it up to store in a Ziploc bag.
Does cilantro need to be refrigerated?
While cilantro kept at room temperature is safe to eat, it won’t last nearly as long. It does MUCH better when kept cold in the fridge.
FAQs
When stored properly, whole cilantro can last for up to 1-2 weeks. Chopped cilantro can last for up to 2-3 days.
Cilantro is not quite as hardy as the woodier herbs like sage, rosemary and thyme. The mason jar method works the best for keeping it fresh longer. (Much like with storing parsley!)
Recipes with Cilantro
You’ll want all these recipes at your fingertips with so much fresh cilantro on hand!
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How to Store Cilantro (Whole or Chopped)
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Ingredients
- Cilantro bunch or chopped
Instructions
Storing Whole Cilantro (Jar Method):
- Without rinsing, trim the stems slightly from a bunch of cilantro to make them flat. Add cilantro to a glass mason jar filled with 1-2 inches of water. Keep uncovered as a bouquet or cover with a plastic bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks, refreshing the water every 3-5 days.Cilantro
Storing Whole Cilantro (Paper Towel Method):
- Without rinsing, wrap whole cilantro in a damp paper towel and then place in a plastic bag or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Storing Chopped Cilantro:
- Before storing, make sure the chopped cilantro is thoroughly dry. Add the cilantro to an airtight container that has been lined with paper towels. Cover the container with a lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
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