What Can I Do with a Large Bunch of Parsley?

A large bunch of parsley can seem overwhelming, but there are numerous creative ways to use it up without letting it go to waste. Here are some methods to preserve and enjoy parsley throughout the year:

1. Olive Oil Ice Cubes

One effective way to preserve parsley is to submerge it in olive oil and freeze it into ice cubes. This method ensures that you can use the parsley fresh throughout the year without worrying about its shelf life. Here’s how to do it:

Chop the parsley into small pieces.

Fill ice cube trays with a mixture of chopped parsley and olive oil, making sure not to fill them more than halfway, as the parsley will produce some liquid.

Freeze the parsley ice cubes until solid.

Transport the frozen parsley cubes to a freezer-safe container or bag.

When you want to use the parsley, simply add a cube or two to your recipe and let it melt in the dish.

2. Drying and Storage

Drying parsley is another excellent method to preserve it. Here are the steps to dry and store your parsley:

Harvest the parsley and trim the ends.

Dry the parsley using a dehydrator. Place the trimmed leaves on a dehydrator tray and follow the directions for drying soft herbs.

Alternatively, you can air-dry the parsley, but there may be a loss of flavor.

Store the dried parsley in a glass bottle or jar, ideally away from direct sunlight.

The dried parsley can be kept for up to six months.

For immediate use, you can grind the parsley in water to form a paste, then freeze it for later use.

3. Making Chimichurri

For a quick and easy option, consider making chimichurri, a popular Argentine sauce. This vibrant and flavorful sauce is perfect for topping grilled meats or even incorporating into other dishes:

Chop the parsley finely.

Mix the chopped parsley with garlic, red chili flakes, vinegar, oil, and seasonings to your taste.

Let the chimichurri sit for about 15 minutes before using it.

This versatile sauce can be used for several days.

What Can I Do with Excess Cilantro?

Cilantro is another herb that can be preserved in a variety of ways. Here are some creative uses for handling excess cilantro:

1. Freezing Whole Leaves

Cilantro freezes well, making it an easy herb to preserve. Here’s how:

Harvest the cilantro and rinse it thoroughly.

Dry the cilantro leaves by patting them with a kitchen towel.

Break off the leaves from the stems and place them directly into an ice cube tray.

Fill the remaining spaces with water or vegetable stock, leaving just enough to cover the leaves.

Freeze the tray until the water is solid and the cilantro is frozen.

Remove the ice cube tray from the freezer and transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.

When ready to use, add a cube or two to your dish and let it melt.

2. Drying in a Dehydrator

A dehydrator is another excellent tool for preserving cilantro:

Harvest the cilantro and rinse it.

Trim the stems and lay the leaves on a dehydrator tray.

Dry the cilantro according to the dehydrator’s settings for soft herbs.

Store the dried cilantro in a glass jar, ideally away from direct sunlight.

The dried cilantro can maintain its flavor for up to six months.

3. Incorporating into Recipes

Here are some ways to use cilantro in your cooking:

Cilantro can be added to a green sauce, perfect for topping flatbread or roast chicken.

Mix it into scallion pancakes or any dish that benefits from a cilantro kick.

Incorporate it into spinach and potato knishes for a tasty twist.

Boost scrambled eggs with cilantro leaves.

Use cilantro stems in soups and stews, and garnish with fresh leaves.

Create quick, tasty quesadillas using cilantro, scallions, and salsa.

Conclusion

When it comes to handling excess herbs like parsley and cilantro, there are many effective ways to preserve and enjoy them. Whether you prefer freezing, drying, or using them in creative dishes, you can make the most of these wonderful herbs.

Feel free to experiment and share your favorite techniques on how to use up these herbs. Happy cooking!