Fresh herbs are a great way to add flavor to your dishes, but they can be tricky to store. Here are some tips on how to keep your herbs fresh for longer periods of time and how to use leftover herbs in other recipes.
Storing Fresh Herbs
When it comes to storing fresh herbs, the key is to keep them dry and cool. Here are some tips to help you keep your herbs fresh:
- Refrigerate: Most fresh herbs can be stored in the refrigerator. Simply wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing it.
- Freeze: Another option is to freeze your fresh herbs. Simply chop them up and place them in an ice cube tray. Fill the tray with water and freeze. Once the cubes are frozen, you can transfer them to a plastic bag and store them in the freezer.
- Dry: You can also dry your fresh herbs. Simply hang them upside down in a warm, dry place until they are completely dry. Once they are dry, you can store them in an airtight container.
Using Leftover Herbs
If you have leftover herbs, don’t let them go to waste! Here are some ways to use them in other recipes:
- Pesto: Pesto is a great way to use up leftover herbs. Simply blend your herbs with some garlic, nuts, and olive oil. You can use pesto as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for grilled meats.
- Herb Butter: Herb butter is another great way to use up leftover herbs. Simply mix your herbs with some softened butter and use it to flavor vegetables, meats, or bread.
- Infused Oil: You can also make infused oil with your leftover herbs. Simply heat some oil in a pan and add your herbs. Cook for a few minutes, then strain the oil and discard the herbs. You can use the infused oil to flavor salads, pasta, or grilled meats.
Conclusion
Fresh herbs are a great way to add flavor to your dishes, but they can be tricky to store. By following these tips, you can keep your herbs fresh for longer periods of time and use them in other recipes. Whether you’re making pesto, herb butter, or infused oil, there are plenty of ways to use up leftover herbs. So next time you have some extra herbs on hand, don’t let them go to waste!
I hope this post helps you store your fresh herbs better and use them in creative ways. If you have any other tips or suggestions, feel free to share them in the comments below!