No matter how ambitious the cook, it seems like there are never enough ways to use mint before it wilts. As with many herbs, fresh mint has a very short shelf life, but you can extend it with a few different storing methods. Here, we’ll tell you how to store fresh mint four different ways so it doesn’t go to waste, plus two ways to freeze your fresh mint.

How to store fresh mint

On the counter

You can leave fresh mint on the counter in a bit of water. This method requires the least amount of effort.

If you change the water when it gets cloudy, the mint should last about a week.

In the refrigerator

This method works really well, but requires a little more engineering.

You don’t have to change the water with this method. The leaves may start to droop a little after a week, but they should stay nice and green (and usable) for about three weeks.

Paper towel and plastic bag

This method works well too — and skips the jar of water.

Your mint won’t have the same snap as it did when you bought it, but it will remain fresh and green for at least three weeks with this method.

Paper towel and an airtight container

Storing the mint in a container helps protect it from being bruised and battered by other items in the refrigerator.

The leaves will stay green with this method for about two weeks.

How to freeze fresh mint

In ice cubes

You can keep these in the freezer for up to six months and use in smoothies or to chill a glass of lemonade.

On a baking sheet

With a baking sheet, you can freeze whole fresh mint leaves, making it easy to snip with kitchen shears when you’re ready to use it — no thawing required.

(EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com.)

©2023 Dotdash Meredith. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.