Last updated on July 30th, 2025 at 09:45 pm
Just like you, we needed ideas on how to store fresh mint leaves for long-term storage. We have an overabundance right now and we would hate to see it go to waste.
If you’ve ever brought home a bunch of fresh mint leaves only to find them wilted or slimy after a few days, you’re not alone. Mint is a delicate herb with a very short shelf life. With the right way to store it, you can keep your mint fresh for up to two weeks or longer.
Whether you grow your own garden mint, bought a bunch of mint at the grocery store, or harvested mint plants from your herb garden, knowing how to store it is the key to preserving that unique flavor and bright green color.
In this post, we’ll go over the best ways to store mint, including long-term storage solutions for large harvests. Let’s dive into the different methods and help you find the best method for your needs.
Why Mint Needs Special Care
Fresh mint leaves are a tender herb. Full of essential oils and flavor, but also full of moisture, making them quick to wilt or rot if not stored correctly. Unlike basil leaves, mint prefers a cool, humid environment.
Whether you use mint to make mint pesto, own mint tea, or to flavor your iced tea on hot summer days, storing mint the right way preserves the best flavor with the least amount of effort.
Best Methods to Store Fresh Mint
There are different ways to store mint depending on how soon you plan to use it. Here are the top methods for keeping mint fresh and flavorful.
1. In a Jar of Water Like a Flower Bouquet
This is often considered the best way to store a bunch of mint for short-term use.
How to
- Trim the mint stems with clean cuts.
- Fill a mason jar or glass with 1–2 inches of water.
- Place the entire bunch upright in the jar, like flowers.
- Loosely cover with a plastic bag or plastic wrap.
- Store on the kitchen counter (if using within 3 days) or in the fridge.
Why it works. Mint stays hydrated without sitting in too much moisture. Just be sure to change the cold water every couple of days.
✅ Great way for keeping mint usable for up to 2 weeks.
2. Wrapped in a Damp Paper Towel
If you need mint to stay fresh in the fridge without taking up much space, try this method.
How to
- Rinse your fresh mint leaves and pat dry.
- Lay them on a damp paper towel in a single layer.
- Roll them gently and place in a freezer bag or airtight container.
- Store in your fridge’s crisper drawer.
✅ Ideal for home cooks who use mint throughout the week with minimal prep.
3. Freezing Mint in Ice Cube Trays
For long-term storage, the ice cube method is an excellent option. Perfect for adding flavor to soups, stews, sauces, or hot dishes.
How to
- Rinse and dry whole leaves or chop a handful of mint.
- Place in each slot of an ice cube tray.
- Cover with enough water or olive oil and freeze.
- Once frozen, pop out the mint cubes and store in a freezer bag or airtight container.
✅ Mint ice cubes are a good idea for year-round flavor, especially during the off-growing season.
Optional twist. Use the ice cube tray method to prep refreshing cubes for iced tea. A great way to enjoy mint’s sweet flavors on hot summer days.
How to Freeze Fresh Mint without Water
You can freeze fresh mint without water. It’s a great option if you want to preserve the mint’s flavor without diluting it or turning it into ice cubes.
Here are a few easy methods
1. Freeze Mint Leaves on a Baking Sheet
This is the best way to freeze mint without clumping and without using water or oil.
How to do it
- Wash and dry the fresh mint leaves thoroughly (remove all moisture!).
- Spread the whole leaves or chopped leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place in the freezer for about 1–2 hours, or until fully frozen.
- Transfer frozen mint into a freezer bag or airtight container.
- Label with date. Store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
✅ Great for adding to dishes during cooking, like soups, stir-fries, or mint pesto.
2. Flash Freeze Mint Stems (Optional for Whole Bunches)
You can also freeze entire bunches of mint (stems and all), though the texture won’t be great for garnish after thawing.
How to do it
- Rinse and dry the bunch thoroughly.
- Wrap loosely in plastic wrap or a paper bag, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Use within a few months for cooking purposes only.
Things to Know About Freezing Fresh Mint
- Frozen mint will lose its crisp texture but keeps its flavor.
- It’s not ideal for garnish after thawing (it’ll be wilted).
- It’s perfect for use in
- Hot dishes
- Mint tea
- Smoothies
- Sauces or marinades
4. Drying Mint for Long-Term Use
Drying is a great way to preserve mint during or after the growing season, especially if you have large harvests of garden mint. Once dried and stored properly, mint can last up to a year while retaining much of its flavor and essential oils.
How to Tell When Mint Is Dry Enough
- The leaves should feel crispy and crumble easily between your fingers.
- They should not feel leathery, soft, or cool to the touch (signs they still contain moisture).
- Properly dried leaves are fragile and break into flakes, not bend.
Air Drying Mint
Best for those without special equipment and with time to spare.
Instructions
- Harvest mint in the morning after dew has dried.
- Rinse gently and pat dry.
- Tie the mint stems together into small bundles.
- Hang upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area (like a pantry or unused closet).
- Use a paper bag with holes to cover the bundles to keep dust off while allowing airflow.
Time
✔️ 1 to 2 weeks, depending on humidity levels and bundle size.
Food Dehydrator Method
Best for those looking for a quicker, controlled process.
Instructions
- Remove leaves from stems or leave whole stems if preferred.
- Place mint in a single layer on dehydrator trays or baking sheet.
- Set dehydrator to 95°F to 115°F (low setting for tender herbs).
Time
✔️ 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on leaf size and moisture.
✅ Tip. Rotate trays halfway through for even drying.
Oven Drying Method
Best for home cooks without a dehydrator, but want faster results than air drying.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 170°F or the lowest possible setting.
- Place mint in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Prop oven door open slightly using a wooden spoon to improve airflow.
Time
✔️ 1 to 2 hours. Check every 15 minutes after the first hour.
✅ Tip. Watch closely to avoid burning the leaves. Mint is a delicate herb and can scorch easily.
✅ Great for making dried mint for teas and seasoning blends.
Extra Tips for Keeping Mint Fresh
- Store mint at the right time of day. Early morning harvests have the highest essential oils.
- Avoid bruising mint during handling. It’s a delicate herb.
- Don’t wash mint until you’re ready to use it unless storing with a damp paper towel.
- Keep stored mint away from ethylene-producing produce like apples or bananas.
How to Use Stored Mint
Whether you freeze, dry, or refrigerate it, here are some tasty ways to use your stored mint:
- Steep in a cup of water for relaxing mint tea.
- Add to lemonade or iced tea.
- Blend into sauces, dips, or marinades.
- Toss into salads, yogurt, or pasta.
- Use frozen mint cubes in cooking or cocktails.
Choose Your Method of Mint Storage
Fresh mint is a versatile herb that adds brightness to both sweet and savory dishes. We hope you find the best method of storing mint that works for you.
Whether you’re using the ice cube method, a damp paper towel, or a mason jar with cold water, you’ll be preserving high-quality mint with the least amount of effort.
