1. CILANTRO
Store it wrapped in newspaper
When you buy cilantro, remove any yellow or wilted leaves and keep the roots intact to prevent spoilage. Rinse the herb thoroughly, paying close attention to the muddy area near the roots. Allow the cilantro to air dry in a well-ventilated area.
Next, wrap the cilantro in newspaper and place the bundle in a clean bag before storing it in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. This method can keep cilantro fresh for up to 7–10 days, or even longer, while preserving its color, flavor, and nutritional value.
If you have concerns about the hygiene of newspaper, you can substitute it with paper towels. It’s crucial to ensure the herb is completely dry before wrapping, and remember to remove any wilted leaves to prolong its freshness.
2. BASIL
Refrigerate basil
After rinsing and thoroughly drying basil leaves, place them on a paper towel and roll it up. Put the rolled paper towel in a Ziploc bag and store it in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer.
This method helps maintain the freshness of basil for about five days without compromising its distinctive flavor.
Basil in a vase of water
Cut basil sprigs to a length of about 8–12 cm. Place them in a clean glass of water and position it near a sunny windowsill. Remember to change the water daily to ensure the herb stays fresh.
The ideal temperature for basil is between 24–32°C. During storage, remove any yellow or wilted leaves. After about a week, you’ll notice the roots starting to grow, allowing the plant to continue thriving. This method can keep basil fresh for approximately three weeks.
3. SCALLIONS
Refrigerate scallions
When you buy scallions, remove any rotten or yellow leaves to prevent the rest from spoiling. It’s important to leave the roots intact.
Prepare a clean basin of water and add a spoonful of salt, stirring until it dissolves. Salt is a great disinfectant, so this solution will clean the scallions and help prevent decay. Next, immerse the roots in the saltwater solution for about five minutes. You can also add baking soda to the mixture.
After five minutes, immerse the rest of the scallions, including the leaves, for an additional soak. Then, replace the saltwater solution with a basin of clean water and add a spoonful of baking soda. Soak the scallions in this solution for about five minutes. Baking soda effectively removes dirt and grime from the scallions. After soaking, pat them dry with a paper towel. Ensure the scallions are completely dry before storing, as any remaining moisture can lead to spoilage.
Once the scallions are prepared, you can begin the storage process:
– Refrigerate: Wrap the scallions in plastic wrap, ensuring the roots are tightly sealed. Store them in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer, where they will stay fresh for about one to two weeks.
Scallions in a glass of water in the refrigerator
– First, thoroughly rinse the scallions.
– Fill a glass with water to a depth of about 4 cm.
– Place the scallions in the glass, with the roots submerged.
– Cover the glass with a large Ziploc bag.
– Store the glass in your refrigerator.
Using this method, scallions can stay fresh for two to four weeks, depending on their initial condition when purchased.
Store scallions with paper towels and a Ziploc bag
– After rinsing the scallions, allow them to air dry as much as possible.
– Cut the scallions, separating the green and white parts.
– Take two sheets of paper towel and wrap a handful of the green part in them. Place this bundle in a large Ziploc bag. Squeeze out the air and seal the bag.
– Take another sheet of paper towel and wrap some of the white part in it. Place this bundle in a separate Ziploc bag. Again, squeeze out the air and seal the bag.
– Label the bags with the date. This way, you’ll know what’s inside and when to use them.
– Repeat this process for the remaining scallions. Stored this way, scallions can stay fresh for two to four weeks, depending on their initial condition when purchased.
4. LETTUCE
Store lettuce with paper towels
Don’t worry if you’ve bought too much lettuce; it won’t go to waste! Place a paper towel under each leaf and wrap the lettuce in plastic wrap. The paper towels will absorb excess moisture, preventing the leaves from becoming soggy and discolored. Remember to check the paper towels regularly and replace them if they become damp, ensuring your lettuce stays fresh for longer.
How to Keep Cilantro Fresh for 3 Months: Follow This Method for Fresh and Delicious Cilantro Every Time
To preserve fresh cilantro for an extended period of time while retaining its delicious flavor, here’s what you can do.
