Rosemary has a fragrant, pine-like flavor with citrusy notes, making it perfect for enhancing the taste of roasted vegetables, soups, and Mediterranean vegetarian dishes.
Quick Finds
Storing Rosemary for Maximum Freshness
- Refrigerate Fresh Rosemary: Place fresh rosemary in a plastic bag or container, and store it in the vegetable crisper of your fridge.
- Water Method: Trim the stems and place them in a jar with water, similar to flowers, and cover the top with a plastic bag. Store in the fridge.
- Drying: To store rosemary long-term, air-dry or use a dehydrator. Store dried rosemary in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
How Long Fresh Rosemary Will Keep
- In the Fridge: Fresh rosemary typically lasts for about 1-2 weeks when stored properly.
- Dried: Dried rosemary can last up to 1-2 years when kept in an airtight container.
Preparing Rosemary for Cooking
- Remove Leaves from Stems: Hold a sprig by the top and pull downwards to remove leaves from the woody stem.
- Chop or Mince: Chop or mince the leaves finely for quick use. For a stronger flavor, leave the leaves whole and remove them after cooking.
- Infusion: Add whole sprigs to stews, soups, or roasts for subtle flavor, removing before serving.
Harvesting Rosemary to Maintain Plant Health
- Prune Regularly: Trim off about one-third of the plant’s growth each year to promote new growth.
- Harvest in Moderation: Harvest sprigs from the top and outer edges of the plant to allow the center to grow and thrive.
- Avoid Over-Harvesting: Never remove more than a third of the plant at a time, as this can damage it and hinder future growth.
