Fresh herbs and spices make meals shine. If you have ever wondered how to preserve parsley, here are a few methods—no blending required!
Although this method is very similar to preparing chimichurri, I promise you, it’s slightly different.
Best Way to Preserve Parsley (Quick Answer)
The best way to preserve parsley is to store it in the refrigerator like a bouquet of flowers—stems in water and loosely covered. For long-term storage, freezing parsley in oil or water works best.
There is nothing that can compare to the addition of fresh herbs and spices when it comes to making meals absolutely stand out. On the other hand, getting your hands on something fresh is not always simple or convenient.
How To Preserve Parsley
🌿 Method 1: Refrigerate Parsley (Bouquet Method): Trim stems. Place in water. Cover loosely.
❄️ Method 2: Freeze Parsley in oil.
🌬️ Method 3: Dry Parsley
🧊 Method 4: Store Parsley in Fridge Without Water
🫙 Method 5: Preserve Parsley in Oil – see below.
When it is warmer outside, parsley is one of the herbs I have to plant. Fresh herbs come in handy very frequently while we are preparing a wide variety of foods, ranging from Haitian recipes to a wide variety of main dishes from across the world. Additionally, using fresh herbs is a great method to enhance the flavor complexity of any dish.
Furthermore, parsley is a versatile herb/ingredient that can be used in various dishes, including rice dishes like this Haitian black rice recipe or diri djon djon, dips, poultry dishes, parsley tea, and so on.
How To Make It For $15 Or Less
Here’s how to save money on your herbs and have it for a longer period. This method will help save you money on all future delicious and it is also vegan-friendly. All of the ingredients can be found at Walmart, Amazon, or in your pantry.
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Key Ingredient price list:
Fresh Curley Parsley Bunch (3 bunches): $3.21
All Natural Distilled White Vinegar: $2.53
Extra Virgin Olive Oil 8.5 Fl oz: $4.48
Great Value Crushed Red Pepper 1.75 oz: $1.44
Total: $11.66
Which Method Is Best
Deciding how to preserve your parsley is entirely up to you. This will depend on how often you cook and the type of dishes you make. Here are a few suggestions.
Freezing Parsley
If you’re someone who doesn’t cook often, then freezing parsley is an excellent choice for you. This method for preserving.
Freezing parsley is not only a simple process, but it also allows us to preserve and take advantage of the herb’s natural earthy flavors. It is important to keep in mind that freezing fresh parsley may turn the herb from a vibrant green color to dark green, especially if it is not wrapped in a freezer-safe bag.
Before freezing the parsley, I highly recommend washing it first to get rid of dirt. Pat the parsley dry or shake off the water with a salad spinner. Wrap the parsley in a paper towel and place it in a freezer-safe zip-lock bag.
Removing the water will also help to reduce the chance of freezer burn.
Chopping Parsley To Freeze
Similar to the previous method, another way to learn how to preserve parsley is by chopping it and seasoning it for future use.
As someone who enjoys stews and seafood recipes, I often use this method.
First: Wash and pat the parsley dry. Remove the stem then chop the parsley.
Second: Place the parsley in a large bowl, then add 1 ½ cup extra virgin olive oil, ½ cup distilled white vinegar, 2 tablespoons kosher salt, and ⅓ cup red pepper flakes.
Third: Mix well to combine. Then transfer the parsley to a mason jar or an airtight container. Refrigerate and use as often as needed.
This is perfect with slow-cooked meals, red snapper recipes, stews, and soups.
Herb Butter
Making herbed butter also known as compound butter, is straightforward. It starts with chopping the parsley after washing it. Pat it dry with a clean towel.
After chopping the parsley, combine it with room-temperature butter. Using cold butter will make it difficult to mix or blend easily.
Making herb butter is an excellent method as you can use it to flavor steak dishes, like this grilled cowboy steak, this Haitian Tasso, and sauces.
When you have finished combining the butter and herb, you can easily season the herb with a little bit of salt and pepper. In addition, you can enhance the flavor by including granulated garlic and onions in the mixture.
Next, transfer the seasoned or herb butter onto a saran wrap and shape it into a tight log. Be sure to secure the ends.
At this point, you can refrigerate it overnight for it to harden or place it in the freezer for it to harden for about 1 hour. Cut the log into desired-size slices and put them in an airtight container or bag.
Refrigerate or freeze to use as often as needed.
❌ Why Your Parsley Goes Bad Quickly
- Too much moisture
- Not trimming stems
- Storing sealed without airflow
❓Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Parsley can last 1–2 weeks when stored properly.
Yes! Parsley freezes well without blanching.
The bouquet method is best for short-term freshness.
Yes—this keeps it fresh longer.
Recipes Using Parsley
🌿 How to Preserve Other Herbs
- Cilantro
- Basil
- Thyme
For more kitchen tips, check out our posts on the best ways to use bell peppers by making a Red Pepper Coulis, and prep once cook twice.
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Sarah says
Thank you so much. This is exactly what I needed as I often buy herbs in bulk when they are on sale.
Mirlene says
Thank you so much, Sarah!