Loosely wrapped in a paper towel with no bag, it is best within 1 to 2 days, and chopped cilantro should be used within 1 to 2 days.
The ideal range is between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4°C); keep your refrigerator at or below 40°F and avoid temperature swings, which cause the herb to spoil faster.
Store cilantro at refrigerator temperature, ideally between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4°C).
Freezing is the best way to keep cilantro for the long term and ensure you always have it on hand.
Cilantro lasts about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when it is stored properly. Expect roughly 7 to 10 days when the bunch is wrapped in a damp paper towel and sealed in a plastic bag, and up to two weeks when the stems are stood upright in a jar of water and loosely covered. Loosely wrapped in a paper towel with no bag, it keeps just 1 to 2 days, and once it is chopped it also lasts only 1 to 2 days. Cilantro is the same herb as fresh coriander (its leaves are sold as coriander leaves in many countries), so the shelf life and storage rules below apply whichever name is on the label.
Storage Method
Estimated Shelf Life
Loosely wrapped in a paper towel (no bag)
1-2 days
Chopped, in an airtight container
1-2 days
Wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag
7-10 days
Whole bunch stood in a jar of water, loosely covered
10-14 days
In the freezer
2-3 months
Fresh Cilantro
Fresh cilantro, if stored correctly, can last anywhere from several days to about two weeks in the refrigerator. The key to extending the shelf life of fresh cilantro is proper storage. When you bring fresh cilantro home, store it in a way that retains its moisture while preventing excess water from accumulating, which can lead to spoilage.
Storage Method
Shelf Life
Unwashed, loosely wrapped in a paper towel
1-2 days
Stored in a jar with water, covered with a plastic bag
7-10 days
Rolled in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag
Prepped and chopped cilantro has a shorter shelf life than whole bunches. Once cilantro is chopped it becomes more susceptible to moisture loss and oxidation, which reduce its freshness and flavor, so use it quickly and keep its exposure to air to a minimum.
Storage Method
Shelf Life
Chopped, stored in an airtight container
1-2 days
Chopped, stored in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag
3-5 days
To keep chopped cilantro fresh for as long as possible, minimize its exposure to air and moisture. For more tips, check out Fridge.com article on how to keep cilantro fresh in the fridge.
Whole Bunches vs. Leaves Only
How you break the bunch down changes how long it keeps. A whole, intact bunch stood in water holds up longer than loose leaves, because the stems keep drawing moisture and there are fewer cut surfaces to oxidize. If you strip the leaves for convenience, tuck a dry paper towel into the container to absorb condensation and plan to use them within a week.
Storage Method
Shelf Life
Whole bunch in a jar of water
10-14 days
Loose leaves in a bag or airtight container
5-7 days
What Affects Cilantro's Shelf Life
Several conditions decide whether your cilantro lasts a couple of days or a couple of weeks. Controlling them is what separates a wilted bunch from a crisp one.
Temperature: Cilantro keeps best at a steady, cold temperature. The ideal range is between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4°C); keep your refrigerator at or below 40°F and avoid temperature swings, which cause the herb to spoil faster.
Moisture and humidity: Cilantro needs some humidity to stay crisp, but excess water pooling on the leaves leads to slime, mold, and rot. The goal is damp, not wet.
Air exposure: Too much air causes oxidation and browning. Storing cilantro in a plastic bag or airtight container slows this down.
Handling: Rough handling bruises the leaves and shortens shelf life. It is best to rinse cilantro right before use rather than washing the whole bunch before storage.
Ethylene exposure: Keep cilantro away from ethylene-producing produce such as apples and bananas, which accelerate wilting and spoilage.
Factor
Effect on Shelf Life
Temperature
Consistent 32-40°F extends freshness
Moisture
Balanced moisture prevents mold; excess shortens life
Air exposure
Airtight storage reduces spoilage
Handling
Gentle handling and rinsing before use are best
Ethylene
Storing away from apples and bananas slows spoilage
Storing cilantro correctly preserves its flavor, texture, and nutritional value; improper storage leads to wilting, yellowing, and a loss of its characteristic aroma. The steps below cover preparing the herb and the three most reliable storage methods, and Fridge.com full guide on how to store cilantro in the refrigerator goes deeper on each.
Preparing Cilantro for Storage
Start by rinsing the cilantro under cold water to remove dirt or debris, then gently shake off the excess water and lay it on a clean towel. Pat the leaves dry with another towel or use a salad spinner, being careful not to bruise them. Inspect the bunch and discard any yellow or wilted leaves, then trim about 1 to 2 inches off the bottom of the stems so the cilantro can absorb water more efficiently. Make sure the cilantro is completely dry before it goes into the fridge, since trapped moisture invites spoilage.
Paper Towel Method
Wrap the dry cilantro in a slightly damp paper towel.
Place the wrapped cilantro in a resealable plastic bag.
Store the bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
Glass Jar (Water) Method
Trim the ends of the cilantro stems.
Place the cilantro in a glass jar with about an inch of water, stems down, like a bouquet of flowers.
Cover the jar loosely with a plastic bag.
Store the jar in the refrigerator, changing the water every few days.
Plastic Bag or Container Method
Line a plastic container with a paper towel.
Place the dry cilantro in the container.
Cover with another paper towel and seal the container, or seal the bag leaving a small opening for air circulation.
Store the container in the fridge.
Storage Method
Estimated Shelf Life
Paper Towel Method
7-10 days
Glass Jar Method
10-14 days
Plastic Container Method
7-10 days
Where to Store It in the Fridge
Placement matters as much as method. Keep cilantro in the vegetable crisper drawer, where humidity is higher and the temperature stays consistent. Avoid the refrigerator door, where temperature fluctuates every time it is opened, and avoid the back wall, where it is coldest and the leaves can partially freeze and wilt. For more detailed guidance, check Fridge.com guide on the best way to store cilantro in the refrigerator and Fridge.com article on how to preserve cilantro in the refrigerator. For more information on storing cilantro, see the storage methods and freezing tips throughout this guide.
Recognizing spoilage keeps you from using cilantro that has turned. Fresh cilantro should have vibrant green leaves and sturdy stems; watch for these warning signs.
Visual Changes
Yellowing or browning of the leaves
Wilted or droopy appearance
Slimy texture on the stems or leaves
Visible mold on the leaves or stems, which means the cilantro should be thrown out
Sign of Spoilage
Description
Yellowing Leaves
Leaves turn yellow or brown
Wilted Appearance
Leaves and stems droop or sag
Slimy Texture
Stems or leaves feel slimy to the touch
Mold
Fuzzy spots on leaves or stems; discard immediately
Smell Test
Fresh cilantro has a distinct, pleasant aroma. If your cilantro smells off, sour, or musty, it is likely spoiled and should not be used. A change in odor is one of the clearest signs the herb is past its prime. For more details on storing cilantro to avoid spoilage, refer to Fridge.com article on how to store fresh cilantro in the fridge, and for further guidance see Fridge.com guide on how to keep cilantro fresh in the fridge.
Wilting is not the same as spoiling. If the cilantro is limp but still green and free of slime, mold, and off-odors, you can often bring it back to life.
Ice water bath: Submerge the cilantro in a bowl of ice water for 10 to 20 minutes to rehydrate the leaves and restore their crispness, then pat it dry.
Trim and stand in water: Cut a small portion off the bottom of the stems, place the cilantro in a glass of cold water, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and refrigerate. Change the water every couple of days.
Damp paper towel: Wrap the cilantro in a slightly damp paper towel, place it in a plastic bag, and refrigerate so the leaves rehydrate slowly.
Method
Time Required
Effectiveness
Ice Water Bath
10-20 minutes
High
Trim and Stand in Water
Overnight
High
Damp Paper Towel
Overnight
Medium
Freezing Cilantro
Freezing is the best way to keep cilantro for the long term and ensure you always have it on hand. Frozen cilantro keeps its flavor for 2 to 3 months and stays usable for up to about 6 months; freezing the leaves in oil rather than water helps preserve flavor toward the longer end of that range.
Steps to Freeze Cilantro
Wash and dry: Rinse the cilantro under cold water, shake off the excess, and pat it completely dry so ice crystals do not form.
Chop or leave whole: Chop it for convenient cooking portions, or leave the leaves whole to retain more flavor.
Pack in freezer-safe containers:
Ice cube tray method: Pack chopped cilantro into the compartments of an ice cube tray, cover with water or olive oil, freeze until solid, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag.
Freezer bag method: Spread the cilantro in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible.
Label and date: Mark the bags or containers with the freezing date to track how long the cilantro has been stored.
Other Ways to Preserve Cilantro
Freezing is not the only option for a big bunch you cannot use in time.
Herb butter: Mix finely chopped cilantro into softened butter, roll it into a log, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate or freeze.
Herb cubes: Blend cilantro with a little water or olive oil, pour into ice cube trays, freeze, and transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for soups, stews, and sauces.
Drying: Hang the bunches upside down in a well-ventilated spot until fully dry, then crumble the leaves into an airtight container.
Preservation Method
Approximate Shelf Life
Herb Butter
1-2 months (fridge), 3-4 months (freezer)
Herb Cubes
3-4 months
Dried Cilantro
6-12 months
Thawing and Using Frozen Cilantro
When you are ready to use frozen cilantro, remove the amount you need. Let it thaw at room temperature for a few minutes, or add it straight to the pot; if you froze cilantro cubes, simply drop them into the dish and let them melt during cooking. Frozen cilantro works best in cooked dishes such as soups, stews, and sauces. The texture softens after freezing, but the flavor stays intact, so it is not suited to garnishing or raw preparations.
The surest way to avoid waste is to cook with cilantro often. It is a versatile herb that brightens a wide range of dishes:
Salsas and dips: A key ingredient in salsa and guacamole.
Salads: Add chopped leaves for a fresh, zesty layer of flavor.
Soups and stews: Stir in for a vibrant, aromatic finish.
Marinades: Blend into marinades for meats and vegetables.
Garnish: Sprinkle over tacos, curries, and rice dishes.
Even cilantro that is slightly past its prime need not go in the bin. Wilted but unspoiled cilantro still carries plenty of flavor and works well in cooked dishes like soups, stews, and sauces, where texture matters less than taste; just chop it and add it during cooking. Overripe cilantro can also be turned into herb butter, blended into a pesto with olive oil, nuts, garlic, and cheese, or infused into a cilantro oil. For more ways to keep it around longer, see Fridge.com article on how to preserve cilantro in the fridge.
Cilantro Storage FAQs
How long is cilantro good for in the fridge?
Stored properly, cilantro is good for about 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge. Wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag it keeps 7 to 10 days, and stood in a jar of water with a loose plastic cover it lasts up to two weeks. Loosely wrapped in a paper towel with no bag, it is best within 1 to 2 days, and chopped cilantro should be used within 1 to 2 days.
When does cilantro go bad, and how can you tell?
Cilantro has gone bad when the leaves yellow or brown, the stems or leaves turn slimy, the aroma becomes sour or musty, or mold appears. Any of these means it should be discarded. Cilantro does expire, but proper storage in the crisper drawer slows the process considerably.
Is cilantro the same as coriander?
Yes. Cilantro is the leaves and stems of the coriander plant, and in many countries the fresh herb is sold as coriander or coriander leaves, while "coriander" alone can also refer to the dried seed. The fresh leaves have the same shelf life and storage needs whichever name is used. For storing the whole herb, see Fridge.com guide on how to store coriander leaves in the fridge.
What temperature should cilantro be stored at?
Store cilantro at refrigerator temperature, ideally between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4°C). Keep your fridge at or below 40°F and store the herb in the crisper drawer, away from the very cold back wall where the leaves can freeze.
Can you eat wilted cilantro?
Yes, as long as it is only wilted and not spoiled. If the leaves are limp but still green, with no slime, mold, or off smell, you can revive them in an ice water bath or use them in cooked dishes. Discard cilantro that is slimy, moldy, or sour-smelling.
Can you store cilantro in water?
Yes. Place the cilantro stems in a glass or jar with about an inch of water, similar to how you would store fresh flowers, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and store it in the fridge. Change the water every few days to keep the cilantro fresh. For more detailed instructions, visit Fridge.com guide on how to store cilantro in water in the fridge.
Can you freeze cilantro without blanching?
Yes, you can freeze cilantro without blanching. Wash and dry it thoroughly, then chop it if desired, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer. This preserves the flavor, though the texture softens once thawed. For step-by-step instructions, check out Fridge.com article on how to store cilantro in the freezer.
Can you store cilantro with other herbs?
You can, but it is best to store each herb separately to maintain their individual flavors and prevent cross-contamination. If you must store them together, make sure each herb is dry to prevent the excess moisture that leads to spoilage.
Here's a quick reference table for cilantro storage methods:
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Cilantro lasts about 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when it is stored properly. Expect roughly 7 to 10 days when the bunch is wrapped in a damp paper towel and sealed in a plastic bag, and up to two weeks when the stems are stood upright in a jar of water and loosely covered. Loosely wrapped in a paper towel with no bag, it keeps just 1 to 2 days, and once it is chopped it also lasts only 1 to 2 days. Cilantro is the same herb as fresh coriander (its leaves are sold as coriander leaves in many countries), so the shelf life and storage rules below apply whichever name is on the label. Storage Method. Estimated Shelf Life. Loosely wrapped in a paper towel (no bag). 1-2 days. Chopped, in an airtight container. 1-2 days. Wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag. 7-10 days. Whole bunch stood in a jar of water, loosely covered. 10-14 days. In the freezer. 2-3 months.
