How can we keep fresh herbs like: Cilantro, Basil, Parsley, Mint in the refrigerator longer?

Hello, we love to cook with fresh herbs all the time, we get them from the local grocer but the herbs only last a couple of days before they turn black and we have to throw them. Does any one has a technique you use to keep them fresh longer in the refrigerator?

How can we keep fresh herbs like: Cilantro, Basil, Parsley, Mint in the refrigerator longer?
I wrap a paper towel around parsley and cilantro and put them in the bottom of the fridge. I think that they turn black and slimy sooner when the leaves are wet (like in a plastic bag) With most other herbs, like basil, I keep a few inches of water in a glass and put them in the top of the fridge (like a bouquet of flowers). If you don't let the water in the glass dry up, it will keep a long time.
Reply:Put them in a glass of h2o-like you would flowers. Herbs are very hearty when they are still growing so why not plant a few in a window pot, instead?!
Reply:i usually dampen a paper towel, roll it over the herbs and put it in a plastic bag in the fridge.
Reply:Basil wont' keep hardly at all. Best to pluck it fresh from a bush. (EASY to grow in a pot)



The other 3 can be stuck in a glass of water and put in the fridge. They still wont' last over a week.



And buy the freshest you can find when you buy fresh herbs. Check the cut ends to be sure they haven't browned. Brown = old.
Reply:Put them in the freezer. When you know you are going to need them, take the desired portion out a couple hours before use, and put them in the refrigerator to thaw.
Reply:You can wrap the cilantro in aluminum foil. I do this and it lasts longer than when it's in a plastic bag.
Reply:well...

if you keep vegetables wrapped in plastic bags, it'll last longer than usual ( a study has been done )



should work for herbs ( in this case, air tight containers )



also, by having a lump of coal in the fridge will eliminate odours from your fridge...
Reply:I actually freeze mine. I love using fresh dill through out the year as the dried is AWFUL. I just put the fresh spriggs in a food processor (or you can chop by hand) and then put in a glass jar with a bit of fruit freeze to keep them fresh. I use a glass jar as I have found they get dry in a freezer bag. Grow your own in summer in a garden or just a few clay pots and enjoy year round!
Reply:I wrap mine in a damp paper towel, and then put them in a plastic baggie.

They last awhile longer.