Leftover herbs are a common sight in many kitchens, especially when recipes call for just a handful. Instead of letting these precious greens wilt and go to waste, there are plenty of smart ways to use them up and add fresh flavour to your meals. Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your leftover herbs.
Store Leftover Herbs Properly
Wrap and Refrigerate
The first step to maximising your leftover herbs is to store them correctly:
- Gently wrap herbs like parsley, coriander, and basil in a damp paper towel.
- Place them in a sealable plastic bag or airtight container.
- Store in the fridge’s crisper drawer where the humidity is higher.
Keep Herbs Like Flowers
For herbs with sturdy stems such as parsley, coriander, and mint, treat them like fresh flowers:
- Trim the ends and place the stems upright in a jar with a little water.
- Cover loosely with a plastic bag and keep in the fridge.
This method can keep herbs fresh for up to a week.
Freeze for Longer Storage
If you can’t use your herbs within a few days, freezing is a great option:
- Chop the herbs and place them in ice cube trays.
- Cover with olive oil or water and freeze.
- Pop out cubes to add directly to soups, stews, or sauces.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Herbs
1. Make Herb-Infused Oil or Vinegar
Fresh herbs add a wonderful aroma to oils and vinegars:
- Place herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil in a clean jar.
- Fill with olive oil or white vinegar.
- Let it infuse in a cool, dark place for a few days.
Use your infused oil or vinegar for salad dressings, marinades, or drizzling over dishes.
2. Prepare Herb Butter or Spread
Mix chopped herbs with softened butter, cream cheese, or Greek yoghurt:
- Add garlic, lemon zest, or salt for extra flavour.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
Use this herby spread on bread, grilled meats, or steamed vegetables.
3. Add to Soups, Stews, and Sauces
Chopped herbs can brighten up many cooked dishes:
- Stir them in at the end of cooking for maximum flavour.
- Parsley, dill, and chives work well sprinkled on top before serving.
4. Create Homemade Herb Salt or Seasoning
Dry leftover herbs and grind them with sea salt:
- Spread fresh herbs on a tray to air dry or use a low oven.
- Once dried, crush herbs and mix with salt.
Use your herb salt to season meats, vegetables, or popcorn.
5. Toss into Salads and Sandwiches
Fresh herbs add a burst of flavour and colour:
- Mix chopped basil, mint, or coriander into salads.
- Add to sandwiches or wraps for extra freshness.
6. Blend into Pesto or Herb Sauces
Use leftover herbs like basil, parsley, or coriander to make a quick pesto:
- Blend herbs with garlic, nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts), olive oil, and Parmesan.
- Store in the fridge or freeze for later use.
7. Herb Ice Cubes for Drinks
Add chopped herbs like mint or basil to ice cube trays with water:
- Use these cubes to flavour iced water, cocktails, or mocktails.
Preventing Herb Waste
Plan Your Meals
Before shopping, plan meals that use similar herbs to avoid buying small amounts that go unused.
Use SmartPantry to Track Herbs
Apps like SmartPantry can help you keep track of what herbs you have, remind you before they expire, and share your pantry with household members to avoid duplicates.
Buy Smaller Quantities or Grow Your Own
Buying herbs in smaller bunches or growing a few pots at home gives you fresh herbs on demand and reduces waste.
Conclusion
Using leftover herbs creatively not only reduces food waste but also elevates your cooking with fresh, vibrant flavours. With a few storage tricks and recipe ideas, you can make sure those herbs don’t go to waste. Whether you’re making herb-infused oils, adding fresh herbs to your salads, or freezing them for later, there are plenty of ways to get the most out of every bunch.