How to Store Parsley

Have you ever gotten home from the grocery store or come inside from the garden and wondered how to store parsley so that it stays fresh and lasts a while? I know that keeping produce fresh is one of the best ways that we can reduce food waste in our kitchens. So, if you are wondering how to store parsley read on to find out my best tips.

Why You'll Love Using Fresh Parsley

• Fresh parsley is a staple ingredient in many recipes and adding it to your dishes can make them come alive with flavor.
• It also adds a beautiful pop of color to dishes when you use it as a garnish.
• And, it's easy to grow so you don't have to worry about finding it in the store if you want to use fresh parsley.
• Parsley also makes a great garnish when you need to add a little flare to your plate. 

Difference Between Flat Leaf and Curly Parsley

There are two main types of parsley: flat leaf, also called Italian parsley, and curly leaf parsley. The Flat-leaf variety has a slightly more bold flavor, while the curly variety is a little milder. The leaves of the flat leaf are also flatter and larger than those of the curly variety, which can make it easier to chop for recipes.

I personally use flat-leaf most often because I think the flavor is stronger and more pronounced. But, both are great for adding to recipes and as a garnish.

How to Store Parsley

When it comes to storing parsley, you'll want to keep it fresh so that you can use it in recipes whenever you need it. Here are some tips for how to store your parsley:

• I've found that the best method is to treat these delicate herbs like it's a bouquet of flowers. Trim off the ends of the parsley, and fill a large mason jar with fresh water leaving about an inch of water at the top. Then slide the parsley into the water and put it in the refrigerator. The parsley will last for up to a month this way, so you can always have fresh herbs on hand whenever you need them. Be sure to watch for signs of mold. 
• You can also wrap the parsley in damp paper towels and store it in an airtight container or a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator. If I am using this method I like to store the ziploc bag in the produce drawer. This will keep it fresh for about four days. Try to get as much air out of the bag as possible. 
• My mom always buys a lot of parsley, her favorite way is to wash parsley well and place it in a colander to dry or you can use a salad spinner, and cut parsley using kitchen shears. Then she layers them a single layer in an airtight container separated by kitchen towels to absorb excess water. Hers last in the fridge for 1-2 weeks.

How to Freeze Parsley

The best way to freeze parsley is to cut it up into chunks and then place the chopped parsley in a freezer-safe container like a clean ice cube tray and cover it with an oil-like olive oil. Once the ice cubes have frozen solid, move them to a freezer-safe container like a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.

This way, you can take out as much or as little as you need whenever you want to add some flavor to your dish. You can freeze either type of parsley this way, and then it's great for adding to pasta sauces or any other sauce recipe. 

Recipes Using Fresh Parsley

• These Sausage and Cauliflower Patties are a great way to use parsley. The fresh parsley adds brightness and flavor to this savory dish.
• Stuffed Grape Leaves are a classic Mediterranean dish that uses plenty of parsley to bring out the flavors of the filling.
• This Breakfast Frittata is packed with flavor and parsley adds a delicious herby aroma and it's the best way to start off your day.
• Stuffed Zucchini in Yogurt Sauce is a simple meal that is not only healthy but also delicious. It's always a crowd favorite.

No matter which storage method you decide to use I hope that these tips help you store your parsley so that you can keep it fresh for a longer period of time so that your family can enjoy the flavor of the herb for the next 7-10 days. 

More Kitchen Tips

• If you find yourself out of nutmeg but need it for your recipe I've got the perfect solutions for you. Keep this Nutmeg Substitute guide handy in your kitchen.
• Savor the peak flavor of peaches and keep them from getting mushy or moldy with these easy tips on How to Store Peaches.
• Here are my tips on How to Store Spinach so you do not end up with wilted spinach. Check out how you can keep those leafy greens to maximize their flavor and minimize waste.