All About Rosemary
Your complete guide to rosemary - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Rosemary Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for 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.
fresh in fridge1-2 weeks
Signs of Spoilage
Wilting, yellowing or browning of needles, sliminess on stems or needles, development of dark spots, mold growth (fuzzy white or black patches), loss of strong aromatic scent.
How to Check
Visual: Inspect for bright green, firm needles. Discard if needles are dark, mushy, or show any mold. Touch: Needles should feel firm and pliable, not limp or slimy. Smell: Fresh rosemary has a distinct, piney, pungent aroma. If the scent is weak, 'off', or absent, it's past its prime.
Storage Tips
To maximize freshness, wrap fresh rosemary in a slightly damp paper towel, then place it in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Alternatively, place stems in a glass of water like a bouquet, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and refrigerate.
dried at room temperatureWhole leaves: 1-3 years; Ground: 6-12 months
Signs of Spoilage
Significant loss of aroma and flavor, dull or faded color, clumping (indicating moisture exposure), presence of mold or insects (if improperly stored).
How to Check
Visual: Look for a consistent green/grey-green color. Discard if it appears faded, discolored, clumpy, or shows any signs of mold or pests. Smell: Rub a small amount between your fingers. A strong, characteristic rosemary scent indicates freshness. If it smells like dust, musty, or has no discernible aroma, its potency is gone. Taste: A small taste should reveal the distinct rosemary flavor; if bland, it's lost its culinary value.
Storage Tips
Store dried rosemary in an airtight container (glass jars are ideal) in a cool, dark, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources (like stoves), and humidity. While dried rosemary doesn't typically 'spoil' in a way that makes it unsafe, it loses its essential oils and thus its flavor and aroma over time, becoming less effective in cooking.
fresh in freezer4-6 months (for best quality), up to 1 year
Signs of Spoilage
Significant freezer burn (dry, discolored spots), dull color, complete loss of aroma and flavor (though still safe to consume, quality will be poor).
How to Check
Visual: Check for excessive ice crystals or signs of freezer burn. While safe, quality will be compromised. Smell/Taste: After thawing or cooking, the herb should still impart a noticeable rosemary aroma and flavor. If bland, its potency is gone.
Storage Tips
Wash and thoroughly dry rosemary before freezing. You can freeze whole sprigs in a freezer bag, or chop the needles and freeze them in ice cube trays with water or olive oil, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag. Label with the date.