The Trick: Don't Wash It Right Away

Here's the thing: Washing your cilantro immediately-just as soon as you get it home, just to rinse off some dirt-can actually make it go bad faster. Why? Because that water from washing is the ideal place for bacteria to grow. You know, the kind of slimy and gross that your cilantro is sure to become. So, do not wash it yet, just try to remove some of the loose dirt. It is kind of a dry cleaning situation with your herbs.

Storage Strategies

Now, some storage strategies: basically, you have two real options here:

• Refrigerator: I'm a big fan of this. It's simple. Then take your cilantro bunch unwashed and wrap it in a paper towel or a few layers of kitchen towel. Place it in a plastic bag and store it in your crisper drawer. It's like a little herb hug. The paper towel will absorb any moisture that might be released by the cilantro, helping to keep it fresh and crisp. But just try to avoid washing it for as long as possible- you know, until you're actually ready to use it. Freezing: If you want to keep your cilantro longer, this is what you need. However, one just cannot put it in the freezer. You got to do it correctly. Here is a tip from my grandmother: Chop your cilantro into smaller pieces. Place them in an ice cube tray. Pour some water or even broth over the top of the cilantro and then pop that baby in the freezer! Once frozen, you can pop the cubes out and store them in a freezer bag. You're gonna need a lot of cilantro, so do it in batches.

Power of Drying

Want to preserve the cilantro even further? Then try drying it out! You can do this a couple of ways: I use a dehydrator, but you could also use your oven or even air dry it. Once it's dry, you are able to store it for months in an airtight container! And remember: you can always crumble up dried cilantro and use it in your dishes for a flavor boost. It's great for soups, stews, or anything that needs a little herby goodness.

Using Your Fresh Cilantro

Okay, so now you have all this fresh cilantro ready to go! What are you going to make with it? My go-to recipes for cilantro are:

• Salsa: What's salsa, huh, without cilantro? That vibrant oomph that makes it all so great.
• Guacamole: And guacamole! That just doesn't have that fresh, bright taste without the cilantro.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: This is one of those simple and quick side dishes that you can have with whatever meal. It is also one great way to use up a big bunch of cilantro.
• Chicken Tinga: This is a very flavorful Mexican-inspired chicken dish that, with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, will become even more delicious.
  • Cilantro-Lime Dressing: A very versatile dressing to put on a salad, in tacos, or to use as a marinade on chicken or fish.

Cilantro: The Real Hero in Flavor

There you go, no more sad, wilted cilantro! With the tips above, you'll be able to keep cilantro fresh and flavorful for weeks-sometimes even months. You can play around with using it in your dishes. And remember, you can always set some of your cilantro aside for later by freezing. Once you learn how to properly preserve it, you will never be without that fresh vibrant flavor again. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it! Further cooking!