How to Store Cilantro / Coriander in Refrigerator

Cilantro (also known as coriander or Chinese parsley) is one of the most used fresh herbs in the world — and one of the quickest to wilt. A bunch of cilantro can go from fresh to slimy in just 2–3 days if stored incorrectly. With the right method, you can keep it fresh for up to 3 weeks. Here's how.

The Best Method: The Water Jar Technique

Treat cilantro like fresh-cut flowers for maximum freshness:

1. Trim the stems — Cut about half an inch off the bottom of the stems at an angle.
2. Remove damaged leaves — Discard any yellowing or slimy leaves before storing.
3. Place in a jar with water — Stand the cilantro upright in a glass jar or the OXO Good Grips GreenSaver Herb Keeper with about an inch of cold water. The Herb Keeper has a built-in water reservoir and vented lid that maintains ideal humidity — perfect for cilantro.
4. Cover loosely — Place a loose plastic bag over the leaves.
5. Refrigerate — Store in the fridge (not the crisper — a regular shelf works best).
6. Change water every 2–3 days — Fresh water keeps the stems healthy and prevents bacterial growth.

Alternative: The Paper Towel Method

If you don't have a jar handy:

1. Wrap the cilantro bunch loosely in a dry Sparkle Paper Towel.
2. Place in a SPLF Reusable Bag with a little air left inside.
3. Refrigerate in the crisper drawer.

This method keeps cilantro fresh for about 1–2 weeks.

How Long Does Cilantro Last in the Refrigerator?

• Water jar method: 2–3 weeks
• Paper towel + bag method: 1–2 weeks
• Unwrapped in fridge: 2–3 days
• Frozen: up to 6 months

How to Freeze Cilantro

Chop cilantro and pack into ice cube trays with a little water or olive oil. Freeze, then transfer cubes to a SPLF Reusable Freezer Bag. Add directly to soups, curries, and sauces from frozen. Note: frozen cilantro loses its fresh texture but retains flavor well.

Signs Cilantro Has Gone Bad

• Slimy or mushy stems or leaves
• Yellow or brown leaves throughout
• Mold on leaves or stems
• Foul or sour smell

Quick Tips Summary

• ✅ Store upright in a water jar — use an herb keeper for best results
• ✅ Change water every 2–3 days
• ✅ Paper towel + bag works as a good alternative
• ✅ Freeze in olive oil ice cubes for long-term use
• ❌ Don't store unwrapped in the fridge — wilts within days
• ❌ Don't wash before storing — surface moisture causes rot