How to Store Mint So It Stays Fragrant and Fresh
Make the most out of your mint with these simple storage solutions.
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Fresh herbs are unmatched—they add flavor, color, and a pleasant aroma to whatever you’re preparing. But the tricky thing about almost all fresh herbs is that they seem impossible to preserve for more than just a few days. In fact, sometimes you’ll come home from the grocery store and notice your herbs have already started browning and wilting.
Mint is a great example of one of the more finicky herbs, but the real problem is that most people don’t know how to properly store mint leaves and similar ingredients. For instance, some mint leaves are sold in small clamshell packages, which often provide too much moisture. Other times, shoppers will buy loose fresh mint but then just place it in the refrigerator, only to find that it has spoiled the next day.
Related: 4 Herbs You Should Always Plant Side-By-Side
The key to making your mint last as long as possible is knowing how to pick the best bunch and then store it correctly. When shopping for fresh mint, you always want to make sure the leaves are bold, clean, and perky. Then, once you’re home, make sure to store your mint immediately using one of the below methods. If you plan to use mint throughout the week, you might want to consider storing it on the counter or in the fridge. But, if you want to have mint on-hand throughout the upcoming months, the freezer approach is your best bet. Any option you choose will ensure you have the freshest mint for all of your favorite drinks and dishes. Is there anything more desirable than homemade mint lemonade and mojitos, or a vibrant mint pesto pasta? Read on for more details on how to store mint.
How to Store Mint on the Counter
Having a variety of fresh herbs within hand's reach is always a good idea because you’ll be more likely to use them throughout the day in meals and beverages. Just like many other types of herbs, mint does well on the kitchen counter or windowsill. To store mint on the counter, simply trim the stems and place the mint in a small vase or mason jar filled with fresh water. Be sure to change the water every day or so to ensure your mint stays flavorful and vibrant.
How to Store Mint in the Refrigerator
There are two ways to store mint in the refrigerator, and both options are foolproof.
Similarly to how you would store mint on your counter, you can also use this method in the refrigerator, if you prefer. The only difference is that after you’ve trimmed the stems and placed the mint in a cup of water, you’ll want to put a loose plastic produce bag (like the ones you get at the market) over the herbs. This helps retain the proper amount of moisture, which will prevent the mint from drying out.
Related: How to Store Cilantro
Alternatively, you could wrap your fresh mint in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag, unsealed. This approach also allows the mint to get the right amount of moisture without wilting or drying out. If you plan to use your mint quickly, the paper towel method is great for about three days. If you want to make your mint last a bit longer, you should go the cup and plastic bag route.
How Do You Freeze Mint Leaves?
Freezing fresh herbs is the best way to preserve them for as long as possible, and all you need is an ice cube tray. Follow the steps below for the best way to freeze mint leaves:
The first thing you’ll want to do is remove any damaged or browning leaves and tough stems.
Then, gently rinse the remaining mint and pat it dry between paper towels or a kitchen towel.
Remove the mint leaves from the stems and chop them up a bit. Place the chopped mint leaves in the ice cube tray and fill each compartment up about halfway. Then, fill the rest with water.
Once they’re frozen, remove the mint cubes from the tray and store them in a freezer-safe bag labeled with the date.
So, you have frozen mint. Now what? When you’re ready to use your mint, let the cube defrost and then gently pat the mint until it’s dry. You can use frozen mint in anything you’d normally use it in, such as salads, dressings, and cocktails. Just be sure to use your mint within three months of storing it in the freezer for the best results.
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