How to Freeze Fresh Herbs

You can freeze fresh herbs as a great way to preserve their flavor and aroma for future use. The abundance of herbs from your garden can easily be frozen as a simple and effective method of preserving them. By freezing herbs, you can enjoy their fresh taste and aroma all year round.

This post may contain affiliate links, see my disclosure policy for more information.

How to Freeze Fresh Herbs

One of the biggest advantages of freezing herbs is that it's a quick and easy process. This makes it a convenient option for busy home cooks who want to save time in the kitchen while still enjoying fresh herbs in their meals.

Choosing the Right Fresh Herbs to Freeze

Freezing fresh herbs is a great way to preserve their flavor and aroma for later use. However, not all herbs are suitable for freezing. Here are some tips on how to choose the right fresh herbs to freeze:

Choose Fresh and Healthy Herbs – When selecting herbs for freezing, it is important to choose fresh and healthy ones. Look for herbs that are vibrant in color, with no signs of wilting or yellowing. Avoid herbs that have any signs of mold or disease.

Choose Herbs with Strong Flavors – Herbs with strong flavors tend to preserve better when frozen. Some examples of herbs with strong flavors include basil, cilantro, mint, and parsley. These herbs can be frozen whole or chopped, depending on your preference.

Consider the Texture of the Herb – Some herbs, like basil and parsley, have tender leaves that freeze well. Other herbs, like rosemary and thyme, have woody stems and may not freeze as well. Consider the texture of the herb when deciding whether to freeze it whole or chopped.

Preparation of Fresh Herbs for Freezing

Freezing fresh herbs is an excellent way to preserve their flavor and aroma for future use. Here are some simple steps to follow when preparing fresh herbs for freezing:

• Harvest the Herbs: The best time to harvest herbs is in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun is too high in the sky. Choose healthy plants and pick only the leaves and stems that are free from damage or disease.
• Wash and Dry the Herbs: Rinse the herbs under cool running water and gently shake off the excess moisture. Pat them dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner to remove any remaining water.
• Chop or Leave Whole: Depending on the herb, you may want to chop it into small pieces or leave it whole. For example, basil can be chopped, while rosemary is best left whole.
• Pack the Herbs: Pack the herbs tightly into a freezer-safe container or plastic bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the container with the name of the herb and the date it was frozen.
• Freeze the Herbs: Place the container in the freezer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, the herbs can be stored for up to six months.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the fresh taste of your garden herbs all year round.

Methods of Freezing Fresh Herbs

Freezing fresh herbs is a great way to preserve them for future use. There are several methods to freeze fresh herbs, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some popular methods:

Using Ice Cube Trays

One of the easiest and most popular ways to freeze fresh herbs is by using ice cube trays, if I am freezing herbs, I use ice cube trays for the overall convince of it. From freezing to using them.

Here's how to do it:

• Wash and dry the herbs thoroughly.
• Chop the herbs finely and fill each compartment of the ice cube tray with the chopped herbs.
• Pour water or olive oil over the herbs until the compartments are filled.
• Freeze the tray for several hours until the cubes are solid.
• Pop the cubes out of the tray and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Or leave them in the ice cube tray if you have a lid for the ice cube tray.

This method is great for herbs that will be used in soups, stews, sauces, or other dishes where the herb will be cooked. When choosing water or oil for your herbs think about what herb you are freezing and how you most often use it.

Storing and Labeling Frozen Herbs

When it comes to freezing fresh herbs, it's important to properly store and label them to ensure they stay fresh and flavorful. Here are some tips on how to store and label frozen herbs:

Store herbs in airtight containers: Using airtight containers will help prevent freezer burn and keep herbs fresh for longer. Mason jars, plastic containers, or freezer bags are all great options.

Label containers with the herb name and date: It's important to label your containers with the name of the herb and the date it was frozen. This will help you keep track of what you have in your freezer and how long it has been stored.

Freeze herbs quickly: Freezing herbs quickly will help prevent ice crystals from forming and keep them fresh. To freeze herbs quickly, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for a few hours before putting them into a bag or container. This also prevents them from clumping together so you can use individual leaves.

Freezing herbs also provides a convenient way to have fresh herbs on hand year-round, even when they are out of season. This is especially useful for those who enjoy cooking with fresh herbs but do not have access to a year-round supply.

Freezing fresh herbs is a great way to save money, reduce food waste, and ensure that one always has fresh herbs on hand. With a little bit of preparation and knowledge, anyone can successfully freeze their favorite herbs from their garden for year-round use.

Get this freebie!

Grab your seasonal garden planner now and exactly when to plant.

Grab it now!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

Built with ConvertKit

Want More?

Starting Herbs from Seeds

Herbs to Grow in Your Garden

Fresh Herbs All Year Long