Herbs should always be washed before use or storage, as they can contain traces of dirt and bacteria or residue from pesticides and fertilizers. Turn the faucet on to a light drizzle so that the stream of water is not so heavy.
Cutting the stems at a slight angle will improve their water intake. [3] X Research source
Change the water in the container every few days to keep it clean. For even more pristine preservation, use distilled or mineral water. [5] X Research source
When properly covered and given lots of water, your mint will last for weeks, or possibly as long as a month. [6] X Research source Refrigerated mint will usually last a few days longer than mint that’s kept at room temperature.
Quilted types of paper towels will hold up better to wetting and wrapping. Too much moisture can cause herbs to rot quickly. For this reason, it’s important that the paper towels not be overly wet. [8] X Research source
If you need to preserve a large amount of mint, wrap a few smaller bundles individually.
Roll width-wise, going across the stems, rather than lengthwise from stem to leaf. Wrap the mint loosely to keep from mashing or tearing the leaves.
Mint refrigerated in a damp paper towel will retain its color, flavor and crisp texture for at least 2-3 weeks. [12] X Research source If you don’t have a separate container to store the mint in, you can wrap the bundle in an extra layer of dry paper towels and stick it in your refrigerator’s produce crisper drawer. [13] X Research source
This is a great way to process leftover mint, or you can preserve a whole bundle as soon as you get it home from the store. You can also go ahead the chop the mint leaves. That way, all you’ll have to do is thaw them out when you’re ready to cook, bake or mix up drinks.
For trays that make large or oddly shaped cubes, you may be able to use an additional one or two leaves.
If your mint ice cubes are destined for drinks, you can also add a spritz of lemon juice or a sprinkle of cane sugar or honey. [17] X Research source
Try chilling a pitcher of fresh-squeezed lemonade or iced tea with mint ice cubes. [19] X Research source After thawing the mint leaves, press them lightly between a layer of paper towels to squeeze out excess moisture.
