Can You Freeze Parsley?
Parsley is a biennial herb that comes in two varieties- curly and flat. Both miscellanies serve different functions in cooking. However, it becomes a little bit dainty when you need to freeze parsley.
It is because no matter which method you choose, you can only store fresh parsley for two weeks. If you try to reserve it above the said duration, then it will lose its texture, color, and taste.
There are three ways you can try to freeze parsley and several amazing recipes you can make with the same. Keep reading to find out more about parsley.
Parsley: Nutritional Facts and Benefits
Parsley is a green-colored herb that is famous in mid-eastern countries. It finds its use in several recipes like salads and sauces. It has a distinct flavor that elevates the aroma of any dish. There are several varieties of parsley that are available in the market.
A 100g parsley serving contains:
- Energy: 36 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 6.33 g
- Fats: 0.79 g
- Protein: 2.97 g
- Calcium: 138 mg
- Magnesium: 50 mg
- Phosphorus: 58 mg
- Vitamin C: 133 mg
- Water: 87.7 g
After reflecting on the nutritional stats of parsley, it is evident why moms are obsessed with advising that one must always eat their greens!
Benefits Associated with Parsley
Here’s how parsley can affect your body in many essential ways:
- Good for Skin: Parsley contains vitamin C and other essential vitamins that are good for shielding the skin barrier. Thus, eating parsley can help promote cell growth and restore cell damage by healing your skin from within.
- Anti-inflammatory and anti-hypertensive agents: For ages, parsley was used by the elderly for treating conditions like high BP and swelling in the body. It has an abundant source of ions like potassium, zinc, and iron that aid in the process.
- Boosts bone development: Parsley has a high source of vitamin K and calcium. These elements are primarily required in bone maturation and development. Thus, eating parsley is one step toward healthy bone development.
- Good for Eyes: Parsley contains two important molecules- lutein and zeaxanthin. These molecules are proven to reduce the chances of eyesight disorders.
- Antibacterial and anticancer agents: Research shows that parsley has a proven anti-bacterial and anti-cancer activity against different parasites. It has high antioxidant levels that support these activities.
- Good for the Heart: Parsley has a generous amount of vitamin B and folate. According to research, folate consumption prevents heart disease.
Tips to Freeze Parsley
Freezing parsley is easy but maintaining it in the same condition is challenging. It is because fresh parsley leaves go bad in 4 days. The leaves will dry out, or if left in moist conditions they might rot. However, on the other hand, dried parsley leaves can be stored for a year.
You can do so by drying fresh parsley leaves completely and then crushing them in a mortar or a grinder. Transfer the powdered parsley to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for a year. The struggle lies in storing bunches of fresh parsley leaves. Try these three techniques to freeze parsley:
1. Freeze Parsley on Paper Towels
In this method, all you need is a couple of paper towels to wrap the parsley. Start by washing parsley thoroughly and then place them on the paper towels. Dry the leaves by pressing gently with another towel on top. Take this sandwiched parsley along with paper towels into the freezer and allow it to freeze. This is the easiest method to freeze parsley and the parsley will retain its texture for a maximum of 4 days.
2. Wrap Parsley in Coils
Again start by washing parsley leaves carefully and remove all the dirt from them. Then toss them in a ziplock bag at the bottom edge. Once you have added all the bunches to the bag, stock them tightly at the bottom of the bag. Then slowly start rolling the bag from the bottom end towards the top so that it forms a cylindrical shape. When you reach the top close the seal of the bag by squeezing out excess air. Tie a small thread around this cylindrical bag to secure it tightly. Place the bag in the freezer and allow it to freeze. This method can give you fresh parsley for around 10 days.
3. Freeze Parsley in Ice Trays
This is the best method to store herbs like parsley which lose their taste and texture easily. Starting by cleaning your parsley leaves and giving them a quick wash. Then chop the parsley leaves finely or toss them in the food processor with a dash of oil to get an even paste. Once your chopping is done you can add the chopped parsley to the ice trays and fill them to the brim. Then add olive oil to the cubes and set the tray in the freezer overnight. Once the cubes are ready transfer them to a ziplock bag and freeze. When you start cooking you can simply drop these ice cubes into the recipe and enjoy the strong flavors.
Recipes with Parsley
Fresh parsley leaves, curly or flat, are best for cooking different types of cuisines. Here are our top two recommendations that you must try!
Parsley Salad: Salads are best served when garnished with finely chopped parsley. To prepare a mouth-watering salad you will need- freshly chopped onions, pomegranate seeds, parsley, chili powder, sea salt, olive oil, and a pinch of sugar. In a flat bowl, add all the ingredients and give them a mix. You can add avocadoes to this bowl as well! A healthy salad is ready for serving.
Lemon Roasted Parsley Potato Chips: To prepare this recipe, start by chopping fine potato slices that have a thickness similar to that of chips. Wash these slices thoroughly. Then, in a pan add these slices and fill them halfway with water and squeeze in some lemon juice. Cover the pan with a lid and let the potatoes cook for a while. Then drain the hot water and drop the potato slices in cold water for a minute. In another pan, add a tbsp butter and the potato slices. Roast them and add your parsley ice cube. Add spices according to your taste like chili powder and sea salt. Fry the potato slices till they turn crisp brown. Serve with some cheese dip and relish!
Parsley is an exquisite herb with a strong flavor and amazing health benefits. Freezing parsley can be a tricky job thus, follow the steps in this blog to store them fresh for 2 weeks. Also, do not forget to try these amazing recipes to savor your taste buds.