Can you freeze fresh herbs?
Fresh herbs freeze well, especially chopped in oil or water in ice-cube trays. Great for cooking, though they lose their fresh look.
How to store fresh herbs (fridge, pantry & shelf life)How to freeze fresh herbs
- Wash and dry the herbs well, then chop them.
- Pack into ice-cube trays and top with olive oil or water, then freeze until solid.
- Pop the cubes into a labelled freezer bag; you can also freeze sturdy herbs whole on a tray.
How to thaw & reheat
Add the frozen herb cubes straight to hot pans, soups, sauces and stews — no thawing needed.
Best used for
Frozen herbs are ideal for cooking — sautés, sauces, soups and marinades. Hardy herbs like rosemary, thyme and sage freeze best.
What to avoid
Don't expect frozen herbs to work as a fresh garnish; they darken and go limp, so use them in cooked dishes.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best way to freeze fresh herbs?+
Chop them and freeze in ice-cube trays topped with olive oil or water. The cubes drop straight into hot dishes for instant flavour.
Which herbs freeze best?+
Hardy herbs like rosemary, thyme, sage and oregano freeze best. Soft herbs like basil and parsley freeze fine for cooking but lose their fresh appearance.
Do you need to thaw frozen herbs?+
No — add frozen herb cubes directly to soups, sauces, stews and sautés while cooking.
Can you freeze these too?
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