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Fresh herbs, Zero Waste: Expert Tips To Keep Your Herbs Vibrant Longer
At Local Markets and even grocery stores, the allure of fresh herbs is undeniable, especially during the spring.However, keeping those herbs fresh can be a challenge. Culinary experts are sharing simple yet effective strategies to ensure your fresh herbs remain vibrant and flavorful, reducing waste and elevating your culinary creations.
Selecting And Preparing Fresh Herbs
Choosing the right herbs and prepping them correctly is crucial for longevity. Chef Nasim Alikhani, of Sofreh in Brooklyn, N.Y., emphasizes selecting the freshest bunches possible.
Look for these key indicators:
- Perky and Vibrant: Leaves and stems should be plump and well-hydrated.
- Avoid Problem Signs: Steer clear of bunches with wilted,limp,waterlogged leaves,or discoloration.
- Packaging Matters: whenever feasible,avoid herbs in small plastic packages,as assessing their condition is trickier.
Initial prep: The Key To Freshness
Post-purchase preparation is just as vital as selection. Treat herbs like flowers by removing them from their packaging immediately upon arriving home.
Follow these steps:
- Inspect and Discard: Spread out the herbs and pluck away any wilted or browned leaves.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Wash the herbs to remove any dirt or debris.
- Dry Well: Use a salad spinner or blot with paper towels to ensure they are thoroughly dried.
Food microbiologist donald W. Schaffner at Rutgers University, cautions against residual moisture, stating it promotes bacterial growth.
Optimal Storage Techniques For Fresh Herbs
Proper storage ensures your herbs remain fresh and flavorful.
Short-Term Hydration Method
If planning to use your herbs within a day or two, submerge them in water.
Alikhani recommends washing the herbs without drying them and placing them in a quart container of ice-cold water in the refrigerator. Trim the stem ends to enhance water absorption.
Long-Term Storage Solutions
For keeping herbs fresh for one to two weeks, maintain a balance of moisture. Wrap well-dried herbs in a paper towel and place them in a resealable food storage bag.
Schaffner advises ensuring the herbs are as dry as possible before bagging to prevent a “soupy,swampy mess.” Use a generously sized bag or container to ensure air circulation.
Maximizing The Use Of Fresh Herbs In Cooking
Don’t let your herbs go to waste! Integrate them generously into your cooking.
- Stir Through Everything: Add handfuls of chopped herbs to rice,soups,stews,pasta,or risotto.
- Star In Salads: Use dill, cilantro, or parsley in salads, or make an herb salad like tabbouleh.
- Add To Ground Meat: Mix finely chopped herbs into ground meat for meatballs, burgers, or meatloaf.
- Blend Green Sauces: Create versatile green sauces for marinades, toppings, or dips.
- Incorporate Into Egg Dishes: Enhance frittatas, quiches, and savory egg pies with herbs.
- Cook Down Past-Prime Herbs: Add tired-looking herbs to braises, stews, or soups.
Freezing Herbs: A Last Resort With Grate Potential
Freezing herbs is an excellent way to preserve them when you can’t use them fresh.
Alikhani advises,”Freezing them saves the cook’s life.”
Consider these freezing methods:
- Herb Cubes: Pack finely chopped herbs into an ice cube tray, fill with olive oil or water, freeze, and transfer to resealable bags.
- Freezer Bag Method: Mix chopped herbs with oil, flatten in a freezer bag, and freeze quickly.
- Herb Cigars: Bundle herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro, wrap in plastic, and freeze. Snip off what you need when cooking.
Schaffner notes that freezing herbs quickly helps preserve their quality.
Maroulosalata Recipe: A Fresh Herb Celebration
Maroulosalata, a classic Greek salad, highlights the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
- 2 Romaine hearts, thinly sliced
- 1 cup Crumbled Feta Cheese
- ¾ Cup Fresh Dill Fronds
- 4 Scallions, thinly sliced
- ⅓ Cup Olive Oil
- 3 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Soak the lettuce in ice water for 15-20 minutes, then drain and dry.
- Combine lettuce, feta, dill, and scallions in a bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, season, and toss.
Serve this refreshing salad with grilled seafood or as a light supper.
