Fresh parsley is a staple herb in many cuisines around the world, known for its bright, herbaceous flavor. Parsley can be used in many recipes, from sauces, salads, soups, and stews to marinades and dressings. But what happens when you have a large amount of fresh parsley and you can’t use it all? Instead of letting it wilt and go to waste, you can freeze it for long-lasting flavor. In this post, we’ll go over the steps to freezing fresh parsley so that you can enjoy its flavor all year round.
Why Freeze Fresh Parsley?
Freezing parsley is an excellent way to preserve its flavor, color, and nutritional value. Parsley has high water content, leading to a short shelf life. Freezing parsley will prevent it from wilting and turning brown, extending its lifespan for several months. Another benefit of freezing parsley is convenience. By freezing parsley, you’ll always have some on hand in the freezer when you need it. Parsley is also hard to find in its fresh form in some areas of the world, making frozen parsley a convenient alternative.
Common Uses for Frozen Parsley
Frozen parsley is versatile and can be used in many recipes. You can use frozen parsley in sauces, soups, stews, salads, marinades, and dressings. It’s also perfect for adding flavor to roasted or grilled meats and vegetables, adding to egg dishes or scrambled eggs, or garnishing a variety of dishes. Frozen parsley can be used interchangeably with fresh parsley in most recipes, so you don’t have to worry about adjusting your recipes for frozen parsley.
How to Prepare Fresh Parsley for Freezing
Before freezing parsley, you should wash and dry it to remove any dirt or debris. Begin by trimming off any brown or wilted leaves. Next, rinse the parsley under cold running water. Be gentle when washing the parsley as it is delicate and can bruise easily. Once the parsley is clean, shake off any excess water or pat it dry with a paper towel. Your parsley is now ready to be chopped or left whole.
Chopping or Leaving Whole
When freezing parsley, you have the option of chopping it or leaving it whole. If you chop the parsley, it will be easier to measure out when adding it to your recipes. Chopped parsley also takes up less space in the freezer than whole leaves. However, if you choose to freeze whole parsley leaves, they will maintain their appearance better. Whole leaves are ideal for garnishing dishes or for use in recipes that require whole parsley leaves, such as tabbouleh salad.
Freezing Fresh Parsley
The best containers for freezing parsley are airtight and freezer-safe to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze parsley in plastic bags, plastic containers, or freezer-safe glass jars. Be sure to label the container with the date of freezing for reference. If using a plastic container or jar, leave about one inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
Tips for Properly Storing Frozen Parsley
To ensure that your frozen parsley retains its flavor and nutritional value, here are some tips for properly storing it:
– Store frozen parsley in a part of the freezer that has a consistent temperature. Do not store the container near the freezer door, as this area is subject to temperature fluctuations.
– Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air from getting to the parsley.
– If using plastic bags, press out as much air as possible before sealing.
– Frozen parsley can last for up to 6 months in the freezer.
Thawing Frozen Parsley
To thaw frozen parsley in the refrigerator, take the container of frozen parsley out of the freezer and place it in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. The parsley will thaw slowly, and you can use it once it has thawed completely.
Thawing at Room Temperature
To thaw frozen parsley at room temperature, remove the container from the freezer and leave it on the kitchen counter for a few hours. Once the parsley has thawed, it’s ready to use.
Cooking with Frozen Parsley
Cooking with frozen parsley is easy and convenient. You can use frozen parsley in the same way as fresh parsley, such as adding it to sauces, soups, stews, and salads. Frozen parsley is also ideal for recipes that require cooking, such as pasta dishes and casseroles. When using frozen parsley in cooked dishes, add it directly to the dish without thawing it first.
Other Tips for Freezing Parsley
– You can freeze flat-leaf or curly parsley in the same way.
– Blanching parsley before freezing is not necessary, but it can help to preserve the color and texture of the parsley.
– Parsley freezes well with other herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and sage. You can freeze a variety of herbs together in the same container.
– If you want to freeze parsley for longer than six months, you can vacuum seal it for extended freshness.
Conclusion
Freezing parsley is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy its flavor and aroma long after the growing season ends. Properly stored, frozen parsley can last for up to six months in the freezer. Whether you use chopped or whole leaves, frozen parsley is versatile and can be used in many recipes. With this guide, you’re now ready to freeze fresh parsley for long-lasting flavor and convenience.
