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Here’s how to store fresh mint so it stays fresh for days! This is the best way to keep herbs from wilting.
Got a bunch of mint and want to keep it fresh for days? Fresh herbs can go limp in hours after harvesting them. If you’re looking to make a load of mojitos and or another recipe where you need fresh mint, we’ve got the method for you! It’s quick, it’s simple, and it extends the life of this herb up to 3 to 5 days. Here’s what to do!
How to store fresh mint: bunches
The best method for how to store fresh mint when it’s in a bunch? Place it in a canning jar or herb saver! This method is easy and keeps the mint beautifully green and strong. Here’s what to do (or scroll down):
- Find a large canning jar with lid, or an herb saver. We’ve been using this or purchased herb saver for years and love it! But a large jar works just as well.
- Add a few inches water inside and add the mint. Place the cut sides of the mint into the water.
- Screw on the lid. This helps to keep the mint fresh. Alternatively you can also place a plastic bag over the top of the mint that’s sticking out of the jar. It should stay fresh for 3 to 5 days!
How to store mint leaves
Do you have mint leaves that were cut off of the stems? Cut mint leaves start to dry out immediately. If you’ve cut off the leaves and want to save them, there’s still a method for that! It’s just
- Moisten a paper towel. Don’t get it too wet, just moist!
- Place the leaves in the towels.
- Place the towels in a plastic bag and refrigerate. Don’t seal the bag, or it will get too moist. this should last about 3 days as well.
Best ways to store other herbs? See How to Store Basil, How to Store Parsley, How to Store Cilantro, or How to Store Fresh Herbs.
Mint recipes
What are you making with your mint? Let us know in the comments below. Need inspiration on how to use up the rest of your bunch? Here are some mint recipe ideas:
- Make a Mojito like our Classic Mojito, Raspberry Mojito, Strawberry Mojito, Watermelon Mojito or Pineapple Mojito
- Try infused water like this Easy Mint Water
- Make a syrup and serve it with fruit, like Mint Syrup
- Infuse your own herbal tea, like Mint Tea
How to Store Fresh Mint
Here’s how to store fresh mint so it stays fresh for days! This is the best way to keep herbs from wilting.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: 1 bunch 1x
- Category: How to
- Method: Storing
- Cuisine: Herbs
- Diet: Vegan
Instructions
- How to store mint bunches: Find a large canning jar (or purchased herb saver) and place a few inches of water inside. Make sure the jar is large enough that the mint stems won’t be squished or packed inside. Place the mint stems inside the jar, with the cut side in the water. Screw on the lid of the jar, which helps to keep the mint fresh. Store refrigerated for 3 to 5 days: it’s freshest for up to 3 days.
- How to store mint leaves: Place the leaves in moistened paper towels, then place the towels in a plastic bag but don’t seal it. Store refrigerated for up to 3 days.
I make a Honey lime dressing that calls for mint also
I have so much mint, it did take over a spot in my garden, i harvest it tied it in bunches hang it let it dry.
So i make tea all winter long.
Good ideas about storing fresh mint.
I use fresh mint when I make chicken noodle soup from fresh chicken stock! Adding a few fresh mint leaves takes this soup to a new level. Certainly worth a try !
Hello I have a lot of Apple Mint this year and need a little more directions on how to hang dry them? They have taken over and what a shame to not use it before winter rolls in. Please help!
Check out our friend Megan’s info here: https://freshexchange.com/how-to-dry-herbs/
Let us know if you have any questions!