All About Fresh rosemary
Your complete guide to fresh rosemary - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Fresh rosemary Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for fresh rosemary in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Freezer (Chopped in Oil/Water)6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Freezer burn (if not fully submerged), a rancid smell if frozen in oil and stored too long or improperly, or an off-flavor.
How to Check
Visual: Check for any freezer burn or discoloration if not fully submerged. Smell: If frozen in oil, check for any signs of a rancid or 'old oil' smell. If frozen in water, look for any off-odors.
Storage Tips
Finely chop the rosemary leaves. Place the chopped rosemary into ice cube trays and cover with olive oil, melted butter, or water. Freeze until solid, then transfer the cubes to an airtight freezer bag or container. These cubes are excellent for adding directly to soups, stews, roasted vegetables, or sauces.
Short-term Counter Storage (Room Temperature)1-2 days
Signs of Spoilage
Leaves begin to wilt significantly, dry out, turn brown or dark green, and lose their vibrant aroma.
How to Check
Visual: Look for limp, dry, or discolored (brown/dark green) leaves. Touch: Leaves feel brittle, excessively dry, or unusually soft/mushy. Smell: The characteristic piney, resinous aroma will be faint or completely absent.
Storage Tips
Not recommended for extended storage. If not using within a day, transfer to the refrigerator. Can be placed in a glass of water like a bouquet for a day to help maintain slight freshness, but this is a temporary solution.
Fridge (Properly Stored)1-2 weeks (up to 3 weeks if optimally stored)
Signs of Spoilage
Leaves darken significantly, become slimy or mushy, develop white/grey fuzzy mold spots, or emit a sour/unpleasant odor. The stems may also become slimy.
How to Check
Visual: Inspect for any dark, slimy, or fuzzy moldy patches on the leaves or stems. Check for excessive wilting where leaves are completely limp. Touch: Leaves feel slimy, mushy, or overly soft when gently squeezed. Stems might feel brittle or slimy. Smell: A distinct sour, musty, or off-putting smell will replace the fresh, piney aroma.
Storage Tips
To maximize freshness: Wrap the sprigs loosely in a slightly damp paper towel, then place them in an open plastic bag or an airtight container. Store in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator. Avoid washing until just before use, as excess moisture can accelerate spoilage.
Freezer (Whole Sprigs)6-8 months (quality may degrade after this, but still safe)
Signs of Spoilage
Visible freezer burn (dry, discolored patches), excessive ice crystals, or a significant loss of vibrant green color. Once thawed, the texture will be softer, and the aroma less potent.
How to Check
Visual: Look for signs of freezer burn (dry, shriveled, lighter-colored spots) or a thick layer of frost. Touch: Frozen leaves feel overly brittle and dry, rather than just firm from being frozen. Smell: Once thawed, the characteristic aroma will be noticeably muted or absent.
Storage Tips
Wash and thoroughly dry the rosemary sprigs before freezing. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag or container to prevent clumping and freezer burn. Can be added directly from frozen to cooked dishes.