How to Store Parsley in Refrigerator

Parsley is a kitchen workhorse — used as a garnish, a flavor base, and a fresh finishing herb. But it wilts quickly when stored incorrectly. With the right method, fresh parsley can stay vibrant and usable for up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. Here's how.

The Best Method: The Water Jar Technique

Like cilantro and other tender herbs, parsley stores best when treated like fresh-cut flowers:

1. Trim the stems — Cut about half an inch off the bottom of the stems at an angle.
2. Remove yellowing leaves — Discard any damaged or yellowing leaves before storing.
3. Place in a jar with water — Stand the parsley upright in a glass jar or the OXO Good Grips GreenSaver Herb Keeper with about an inch of cold water. The Herb Keeper is ideal — its water reservoir and vented lid maintain perfect humidity for parsley.
4. Cover loosely — Place a loose plastic bag over the leaves to maintain humidity.
5. Refrigerate — Store on a regular fridge shelf. Parsley tolerates cold better than basil and does well in the fridge.
6. Change water every 2–3 days — Fresh water keeps stems healthy and extends freshness.

Alternative: The Paper Towel Method

1. Wrap the parsley bunch loosely in a lightly damp Sparkle Paper Towel.
2. Place in a SPLF Reusable Bag with a little air left inside.
3. Refrigerate in the crisper drawer on high humidity.

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

Curly vs. Flat-Leaf Parsley

Both curly and flat-leaf (Italian) parsley store the same way. Flat-leaf parsley tends to have more flavor and is preferred for cooking; curly parsley is often used as a garnish. Both last equally long with proper storage.

How Long Does Parsley Last in the Refrigerator?

• Water jar method: 2–3 weeks
• Paper towel + bag method: 1–2 weeks
• Unwrapped in fridge: 3–5 days
• Frozen: up to 6 months

How to Freeze Parsley

Chop parsley finely 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, stews, and sauces. Alternatively, spread chopped parsley on a baking sheet, freeze flat, then crumble into a bag.

Signs Parsley 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 is a good alternative for 1–2 weeks
• ✅ Freeze in olive oil or water 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