Have you ever opened your refrigerator, spotted a random jar of parsley and started to wonder how long it had been there?
It's okay if you've never given much thought to the life span of this fragrant herb.
Most of us just expect that our kitchen staples will last almost indefinitely - but is that really true for parsley?
In reality, freshness doesn't always equal longevity in the pantry, so we decided to take a closer look at how long exactly does parsley last, without considering any other storage methods such as drying or freezing.
What's Parsley?
Parsley is a biennial herb that is typically used as a culinary seasoning or garnish.
The plant grows to 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) tall and has dark green, deeply lobed leaves.
The leaves are often used fresh or dried to flavor soups, stews, sauces, and other dishes.
Parsley is also a good source of vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium.
How Long Does Parsley Last?
Parsley is a popular herb that can be used in a variety of dishes.
It has a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that goes well with many other ingredients.
While parsley is available year-round, it is at its peak from late spring to early fall.
It is relatively easy to grow and can be cultivated in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Once picked, parsley will last for about one to two weeks when stored properly.
When kept in the fridge, parsley should be placed in a plastic bag or container with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
For long-term storage, parsley can be frozen in an airtight container for up to six months.
Parsley is most commonly used as a garnish or decoration on top of dishes.
It can also be chopped and added to salads, soups, and sauces for extra flavor.
If you're looking to add a pop of green to your plate, parsley is a great option.
How to Store Parsley?
Parsley is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and garnishes.
While you can buy parsley fresh or dried, it's also easy to grow your own parsley at home.
If you find yourself with an abundance of this herb, you may be wondering how to store parsley so that it stays fresh for as long as possible.
The best way to store parsley is to wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag.
Store the bag in the refrigerator and use the parsley within a week.
You can also freeze parsley by chopping it and placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Parsley will stay fresh in the freezer for up to six months.
If you're not sure how to use up all your fresh parsley, try adding it to omelets, pasta dishes, or homemade pesto.
You can also dry your own parsley by hanging it upside down in a dark, dry place for two weeks.
Once the parsley is completely dry, store it in an airtight container and use it within six months.
Can You Freeze Parsley?
You can freeze parsley, but it's not the best way to preserve its flavor or texture.
When you freeze parsley, the leaves will turn black and become mushy when thawed.
If you absolutely must freeze parsley, it's best to chop it up and add it to soups or stews where it will be cooked.
Otherwise, it's best to use fresh parsley.
How To Tell If Parsley Is Bad?
If you're not sure whether your parsley is still good, there are a few things you can do to check.
First, take a look at the color.
If it's starting to fade or turn brown, it's probably past its prime.
Second, smell it. Parsley should have a fresh, green scent.
If it smells off or bitter, it's time to throw it out. Finally, give it a taste.
If the parsley is bland or has an unpleasant flavor, it's best to discard it.
Parsley is a versatile herb that can be used in many different dishes.
But once it starts to go bad, it can quickly ruin a meal.
To avoid this, pay attention to the signs that parsley is no longer fresh.
Once you notice the color fading or the herb starting to smell bad, it's time to get rid of it.
Parsley Storage for Maximum Freshness
Parsley is a long lasting herb that can last up to two weeks when stored properly.
Be sure to rinse parsley thoroughly and dry it completely before storing in a airtight container.
Keep parsley away from other produce to prevent contamination.
If stored properly, you can expect your parsley to last up to two weeks.
Check the parsley periodically for signs of spoilage and discard if it begins to wilt or turn brown.
Ingredients
Method
- Store your product in an labelled container in a cool, dark place like the pantry or fridge.
- If your food is frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge before cooking.
- Make sure to look for signs that your food has gone bad before eating it.
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The Complete Food Storage Guide - your complete resource for this topic.
See all food storage guides →The shelf life of Parsley depends on storage conditions - properly refrigerated, it stays fresh for [timeframe]. Always check for signs of spoilage before use.
Spoiled Parsley typically shows visual changes like mold or color shifts, develops an unpleasant or sour odor, or changes in texture. Trust your senses - don't taste-test something you suspect is off.
Some types can sit at room temperature for short periods - typically up to two hours safely. Beyond that, refrigeration is necessary to prevent bacterial growth.
Refreezing after thawing is generally not recommended, as it affects texture and increases the risk of bacteria growth. If thawed in the fridge and not yet cooked, refreezing once is usually safe.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of EpicureDelight, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!
