Like pretty much all fresh herbs, parsley has a limited shelf life. Knowing how long parsley lasts can help you plan your meals and, most importantly, reduce food waste.
How Long Does Parsley Last?
How long does parsley last?
Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley typically lasts for about one to two weeks when stored properly. To keep it fresh, wrap the parsley in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag. Then, store it in the refrigerator. This will help to maintain its freshness and prevent it from wilting.
Dry Parsley
Dry parsley, on the other hand, has a longer shelf life than fresh parsley. It can last for up to six months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Refrigerated Parsley
If you want to extend the shelf life of fresh parsley, you can also store it in the fridge or freezer. Simply wash and chop the parsley, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will last for up to six months in the freezer.
Shelf Life and Freshness
It’s important to note that the shelf life of parsley can vary depending on the quality of the herb and how it is stored. To ensure that your parsley stays fresh for as long as possible, make sure to store it properly and use it before it starts to wilt or lose its vibrant green color.
Storing Parsley
Here are some tips on how to store parsley to keep it fresh for longer:
- Store parsley in a plastic bag: One way to store parsley is to place it in a plastic bag and seal it tightly. This will help to keep the air and moisture out, which can cause the parsley to wilt and lose its flavor.
- Refrigerate parsley in the produce drawer: Another way to store parsley is to refrigerate it in the produce drawer of your refrigerator. The cool temperature will help to keep the parsley fresh for longer.
- Use a damp paper towel: To keep the parsley moist, you can wrap it in a damp paper towel before placing it in a plastic bag or in the produce drawer of your refrigerator.
- Use a resealable bag: If you don’t have a plastic bag, you can also use a resealable bag to store parsley. Just make sure to seal it tightly to keep the air and moisture out.
- Use a rubber band or twist tie: To keep the parsley from wilting, you can tie it together with a rubber band or twist tie before storing it.
Preserving Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley is a great addition to any dish, but it can be frustrating when it goes bad before you have a chance to use it all. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep parsley fresh for longer.
The first step is to wash the parsley thoroughly. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be on the leaves. After washing, gently pat the parsley dry with a paper towel or clean cloth.
One way to keep parsley fresh is to store it in water. Fill a jar or glass with water and place the parsley stems in the water. Cover the leaves with a plastic bag and place the jar in the refrigerator. This will keep the parsley fresh for up to two weeks.
Another way to preserve parsley is to wrap it in a damp paper towel and store it in a plastic bag. This will keep the parsley fresh for up to a week.
It’s important to keep parsley away from moisture and heat, as this can cause it to wilt and spoil quickly. Store the parsley in a cool, dry place, and avoid storing it near fruits and vegetables that produce ethylene gas, such as apples and bananas.
Freezing Parsley
As noted above, parsley can be stored in the freezer for up to six months without losing its flavor or nutritional value. Here are some tips for freezing parsley:
- Wash the parsley thoroughly and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- Remove the leaves from the stems and chop them finely.
- Place the chopped parsley in an ice cube tray and fill each compartment with water. Alternatively, you can freeze the parsley in freezer bags or containers.
- If you are using ice cube trays, cover them with plastic wrap and freeze them until the parsley is completely frozen. Once frozen, remove the parsley cubes from the tray and store them in a freezer bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date and contents.
- If you are using freezer bags or containers, make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Another option is to blend the parsley with olive oil in a food processor until it forms a paste. Transfer the paste to a freezer bag or container and freeze it for later use.
When using frozen parsley, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and add it directly to your recipe. There is no need to thaw it beforehand. Frozen parsley can be used in soups, stews, sauces, and marinades.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does parsley last unopened?
Unopened parsley can last up to two years if stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
How long does parsley last in the refrigerator?
Fresh parsley can last up to two weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator. To store, wrap the parsley in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag or container with a lid.
How long does parsley last in a jar?
Fresh parsley stored in a jar with water can last up to a week in the refrigerator. Change the water daily to keep the parsley fresh.
How long does dried parsley last?
Dried parsley can last up to two years if stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
How long does parsley last in the freezer?
Fresh parsley can last up to six months in the freezer when stored properly. To freeze, chop the parsley and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
How can you tell if parsley has gone bad?
Parsley that has gone bad will have a yellow or brown color and a slimy texture. It may also have a sour or unpleasant smell. Discard any parsley that appears to be spoiled.