Hello there, cooking enthusiasts! Are you tired of using wilted parsley, or throwing away a bunch of fresh parsley that you just couldn’t use up in time? Fear not, because we are here to share with you some tips and tricks on how to store parsley properly, so that you can always have fresh and tasty parsley ready to use in your recipes!
Why is it Important to Store Parsley Properly?
First things first, let’s talk about why it’s important to store parsley properly. Parsley is a delicate herb that can easily wilt and lose its flavor and nutrients if not stored correctly. This means that if you don’t store it properly, you might end up wasting money on buying new bunches of parsley every time you need it, or worse, compromising the taste and quality of your dishes.
How to Store Parsley:
Now, let’s get to the juicy part – how to store parsley! Here are some tips and tricks that you can follow:
1. Wash and Dry Parsley Thoroughly
Before storing parsley, it’s important to wash it thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. After washing, make sure to dry it thoroughly as well, as excess moisture can cause the parsley to wilt faster.
2. Wrap in Paper Towels and Store in Ziplock Bags
Once your parsley is clean and dry, wrap it in a few layers of paper towels. This will absorb any excess moisture and help keep the parsley fresh for longer. Then, place the wrapped parsley in a ziplock bag and seal it tightly. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing the bag.
3. Store in the Refrigerator
The best place to store parsley is in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help keep the parsley fresh and crisp. However, make sure not to store it in the coldest part of the fridge, as this can cause the parsley to freeze and become unusable.
4. Keep Away from Moisture and Light
When storing parsley, make sure to keep it away from moisture and light. This means storing it in the crisper drawer of the fridge, and not leaving it out on the countertop where it can be exposed to light and heat.
5. Use Within 5-7 Days
Parsley can typically last for up to a week in the fridge when stored properly. However, it’s best to use it within 5-7 days to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
Alternative Methods for Storing Parsley:
If you don’t have paper towels or ziplock bags on hand, don’t worry – there are other methods that you can use to store parsley as well!
1. Store in a Jar of Water
One alternative method for storing parsley is to place the stems in a jar of water, just like you would with fresh flowers. Make sure to change the water every day or every other day to prevent bacteria growth.
2. Freeze Parsley
Another option is to freeze parsley. This is a great way to preserve parsley for longer periods of time. To freeze parsley, chop it up and place it in an ice cube tray. Fill the tray with water and freeze. Once frozen, remove the cubes and store them in a ziplock bag in the freezer. When you need parsley, simply grab a few cubes and thaw them out.
Tips:
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when storing parsley:- Try to buy fresh parsley that is still attached to the stem, as this will help it last longer.- Don’t wash parsley until you’re ready to use it, as excess moisture can cause it to wilt faster.- If you have leftover parsley that you can’t use up in time, consider drying it or making pesto to freeze.
In Conclusion
And there you have it – our tips and tricks on how to store parsley properly! By following these methods, you can ensure that your parsley stays fresh and flavorful for longer periods of time. So go ahead and stock up on parsley, and never let a wilted herb ruin your dish again!Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you in the next article!
