How to Freeze Parsley: Zero Waste Kitchen Ideas

No matter if it's homegrown or store-bought, you can often end up with more parsley than you can use at any given time. Let's take a look at how to freeze parsley so it doesn't go to waste.

Parsley is such a versatile herb and deserves to be known as more than just a simple garnish. When used properly, it can add a depth of flavor to any dish. The two most common varieties are Italian flat-leaf and French curly-leaf, each boasting their own flavor profiles, which is why anyone who cooks with parsley has their own preference. 

Taking time to store parsley properly will help extend its shelf life. You can simply wrap your fresh herbs in a damp towel and store them in the fridge for a few days. If you need your herbs to last a bit longer, store them in water and keep them in the fridge. 

• Prepare a jar with about an inch of water in the bottom, and place your stems in.
• Cover with a plastic bag, and store in the fridge. 
• Replace water every few days, or whenever it looks dirty. 
• Use within 2 weeks. 

If you have more parsley than you know what to do with, freeze it for later use instead of throwing it away! This is especially helpful if you grow your own since the best way to keep any herb plant healthy is to constantly prune and use it. We’ll show you how to freeze parsley using two simple methods. 

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How to Freeze Parsley: 2 Easy Methods

1. Wash & Chop Method

Probably the simplest method, as you prepare the parsley the same way you would when using it in a recipe. This method of freezing parsley is ideal for making falafel, green juice, or celery juice. 

1. Wash the parsley leaves and either pat or spin in a salad spinner to dry.  
2. Chop the leaves according to your preference – the larger the better, but finely chopped will also work. 
3. Lay out on a baking tray and place in the freezer for about half an hour to flash freeze them. 
4. After half an hour, place the frozen leaves into a freezer bag or airtight container and store for up to 3 months. 
5. To use, simply remove from freezer and add directly to your dish. If you let them defrost, they will become very limp and difficult to work with. 

2. Freezing Parsley in Oil 

This method works really well for when you want to use parsley in soups, stews, and sauces. It also makes a great base for dishes like omelets or frittatas. 

1. Wash the parsley leaves, pat dry, and chop the leaves according to your preference. 
2. Place the chopped parsley leaves into an ice cube tray and cover gently in olive oil. 
3. Store in the freezer until needed – you don’t need to let the cubes defrost before use.

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Tags: Cooking Guide Waste