Our herb gardens are overflowing. Now it's time to learn how to cut basil, cilantro, parsley and more so you can start using your bounty.
How to Cut Basil, Thyme, Cilantro and Other Fresh Herbs
Updated on Oct. 03, 2024
We all love seeing fresh herbs coming up in our garden and enjoying the scents as we pluck stems off the plant. Once we’re in the kitchen, though, many of us take pause: How do you cut fresh basil? How do you get all those tiny leaves off a sprig of thyme?
Each kind of herb requires its own type of prep, but learning how to cut basil or rosemary or cilantro is simple once you know how to approach each one. So give your herbs a quick wash, grab your favorite cutting board and get started!
How to Cut Basil
To cut big basil leaves, our Test Kitchen recommends a fancy-sounding technique: chiffonading. Don’t worry–this French method is simpler than it sounds.
To get perfect ribbons of basil—perfect for our favorite fresh basil recipes—start by rolling a stack of basil leaves together into a tight bunch. Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice crosswise into thin strips.
You can use this same technique for sage leaves.
Test Kitchen Tip: Be sure that your knives and kitchen shears are sharp when working with herbs. A dull knife can easily bruise delicate herbs like basil and mint, causing unappealing browning of these fresh ingredients.
How to Cut Fresh Parsley and Cilantro
To remove cilantro and parsley leaves quickly and easily, run a fork along the stem. This will gently remove the leaves.
You can then choose to use these leaves whole for a more rustic presentation or give them a rough chop for sprinkling on top of your favorite pita or pasta.
How to Prep Fresh Thyme, Rosemary, Mint and Oregano
For herbs with lots of smaller leaves, plucking each leaf off can be a painstaking job. However, there are tools to make this job simple. A handy gadget like this editor’s favorite herb stripper allows you to pull a stem of your preferred herb through the opening. This will remove the leaves right from the stem with a gentle tug.
While you’re waiting for your herb stripper to come in the mail, you can use this Test Kitchen hack: Simply thread a stem through a hole in a colander. This will remove the leaves and collect them right in the basin of the strainer.
When it comes to herbs like thyme, there’s no need to mince these little leaves down further. However, if you want to chop rosemary, oregano or other herbs a little finer, just break out that chef’s knife and rock it back and forth over the leaves until they reach the size you’re looking for.
How to Cut Fresh Chives and Dill
These herbs are the simplest to prepare. After washing and drying, simply snip them with sharp kitchen shears.
How to Store Fresh Herbs
If you find yourself with extra herbs, you can store them for another day. Trim the ends of delicate herbs like parsley, mint, dill, cilantro, and tarragon and place them in a jar filled with an inch of water. Tent a plastic bag over the top and store it in the refrigerator. Change the water every other day or so, just to keep things fresh.
Do the same for basil but keep it on your kitchen counter. The harsh chill of the fridge can be too much for delicate basil.
Heartier herbs, like rosemary, thyme, oregano and chives, can be wrapped in a damp paper towel and stored in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
And if you want to get serious, there are so many helpful gadgets for keeping herbs fresh. These Prepara herb savers earned rave reviews from one of our editors.
Try These Fresh Herb Recipes
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Blueberry, Basil and Goat Cheese Pie
For a good friend moving to L.A., I made a blueberry goat cheese pie. Bake one, share it and start a precious memory. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Herbed Feta DipGuests can’t get enough of this thick, zesty dip that bursts with fresh Mediterranean flavor. The feta cheese and fresh mint complement each other beautifully, creating the perfect sidekick for crunchy carrots, toasted pita chips, sliced baguettes or any other dipper you fancy.—Rebecca Ray, Chicago, Illinois
Spiced Grilled Chicken with Cilantro ButterThe spicy heat of the chicken pairs beautifully with the flavorful cilantro butter in this original recipe from Diane Halferty of Corpus Christi, Texas. We added spicy chocolate cinnamon cane sugar to the chicken, which complemented the other spices that are brushed over the chicken before grilling. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Frozen Strawberry-Basil MargaritaFresh, fruity and oh, so cool, this strawberry-basil margarita may be the perfect summer cocktail. —James Schend, Taste Recipes Deputy Editor
Rosemary FocacciaThe savory aroma of rosemary in this classic bread is simply irresistible. This rosemary focaccia bread tastes great as a side dish with any meal, as a snack or as a pizza crust.
Lime and Dill Chimichurri ShrimpChimichurri is a very popular condiment in Argentina and Uruguay and is most often used as a dipping sauce or a marinade for meats. My chimichurri shrimp version incorporates dill and lime, which give it a brighter flavor, making it ideal for spring and summer entertaining. —Bonnie Landy, Castro Valley, California
Creamy Chive RingsWhen I brought this savory ring to an extension luncheon, club members
let me know how much they enjoyed it. Next meeting I had to bring copies of the recipe for everyone there! —Pamela Schlickbernd West Point, Nebraska 
Rosemary SalmonThis rosemary salmon is a favorite, thanks to the savory herb that adds unbelievable flavor to the fish as it bakes. Cooked with asparagus and red peppers, it's a healthy and quick dinner option that pulls in rave reviews too.
Orange Blossom Mint RefresherI came up with this recipe because I'm not a fan of regular iced tea. This version has the perfect combination of freshness and sweetness, and the orange blossom water gives the tea a distinctive flavor. People always request the recipe. —Juliana Gauss, Centennial, Colorado
Pine Nut and Basil GuacamoleGuacamole is typically a Mexican dish, but that doesn’t mean you can't try to make it with other global flavors. For an Italian-inspired basil guacamole recipe, top it off with toasted pine nuts and fresh herb ribbons. You can also substitute the traditional lime for lemon juice.—Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Cauliflower Dill KugelI enjoy cauliflower and kugel, so it made sense to combine the two into one special dish. The ricotta cheese adds a distinctive creaminess and lightness. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois
Cinnamon-Basil Ice CreamI started experimenting with herbal ice creams when I was teaching classes at our local college. Not only were the ice creams popular with my students, but my family loved them as well! One of our favorites is made with a variety of basil called cinnamon basil; however, unless you grow the variety yourself, it can be rather difficult to find. I decided to try to re-create the flavor, and this delicious basil ice cream recipe is the result! —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Chicken and Broccoli with Dill SauceI've had this chicken and broccoli recipe for so many years, I don't remember when I first made it. Serve it with a side of couscous or rice for a complete meal, or add some sliced mushrooms or carrots for extra veggies. —Kallee Krong-Mccreery, Escondido, California
Cheesy Mashed PotatoesForget everything else you know about mashed potatoes. These creamy, rich, cheesy mashed potatoes are the ultimate decadent side dish for get-togethers and gatherings.
Lemon-Thyme Tea BreadI received this recipe as part of a gift, along with a lemon thyme plant and a fresh loaf of this pound cake-like bread. Everyone who tries it asks for the recipe. —Jeannette Mango, Parkesburg, Pennsylvania
Rosemary Beef Roast over Cheesy PolentaI love beef roast in the slow cooker, and it's fun to pair it with something a little different than potatoes! This is true comfort food. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Syrian Green Beans with Fresh HerbsThis is how my mom always made green beans. She got the recipe from a neighbor when we lived in Turkey. Make a double batch as they make an excellent healthy snack straight from the fridge. Add a thinly sliced onion and red bell pepper if you like. —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Golden Beet and Peach Soup with TarragonOne summer we had a bumper crop of peaches from our two trees, so I had fun experimenting with different recipes. After seeing a beet soup recipe in a cookbook, I changed it a bit to include our homegrown golden beets and sweet peaches. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Rosemary and Ginger Infused WaterAromatic and slightly spicy, this infused water is great for winter holidays and celebrations. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Basil Chicken SandwichesI got the inspiration for this recipe when I knew my parents and in-laws were coming to see our new home. My mother-in-law has food allergies, my father-in-law has some very specific food preferences and my parents appreciate light meals. I created this chicken sandwich with fresh basil for our lunch. —Kerry Durgin Krebs, New Market, Maryland
Roasted Asparagus With ThymeThis is good-for-you spring-time side dish is so easy to prepare, yet the simply seasoned spears look appealing enough to serve guests or take to carry-in dinner. —Sharon Leno, Keansburg, New Jersey
Herbed Tuna and White Bean SaladThis is a quick and delicious salad that can be made special for guests—or yourself—by grilling fresh tuna steaks instead of using canned. —Charlene Chambers, Ormond Beach, Florida
Cilantro Lime ShrimpA quick garlicky lime marinade works magic on these juicy shrimp. They come off the grill with huge flavors perfect for your next cookout. —Melissa Rodriguez, Van Nuys, California
Dilly Cheese BallMy whole family devours this herby cheese spread—even my son, the chef. Serve it with your favorite crackers. —Jane Vince, London, Ontario 
Green Beans and Radish Salad with Tarragon PestoWhichever way my garden grows, I usually build my salad with green beans, radishes and a pesto made with tarragon. That adds a hint of licorice. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Peach-Basil Lemonade SlushThis chilly slush with peaches, lemon juice and garden-fresh basil is hands-down the best lemonade ever. It tastes just like summer. —Dana Hinck, Pensacola, Florida
Honey-Thyme ButterLaced with honey and fresh thyme, this butter is perfect for either sweet or savory dishes. It's amazing on bread and rolls fresh out of the oven but equally as good on a stack of blueberry pancakes. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen
Thai Salad with Cilantro Lime DressingI created this salad to replicate one I tried on a cruise several years ago. It goes over very well at family gatherings and potlucks year-round. We love the spice of the Thai chile, but if your family isn't into spice, feel free to leave it out. It will still be delicious! —Donna Gribbins, Shelbyville, Kentucky 
Pineapple and Mint Infused WaterThis pineapple and mint water is like a tropical cocktail but without the sticky-sweet taste. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Salmon Dill SoupThis is the best soup I have ever made, according to my husband, who loves salmon so much that he could eat it every day. It's a treat for both of us, so when I get some, I try to make it a very special dish like this one. —Hidemi Walsh, Plainfield, Indiana 
Apricots with Herbed Goat CheeseAfter ending up with bunches of apricots one summer, I created this quick and simple dish. My friends were blown away with its fresh taste and uniqueness. —Wendy Weidner, Ham Lake, Minnesota
Brussels Sprouts in Rosemary Cream SauceBrussels sprouts in a rosemary-infused cream sauce have the power to bring friends together – but watch out for fights over who gets the last of the sauce. —Liz Koschoreck, Berea, Kentucky 
Strawberry Tarragon Chicken SaladAfter thinking about creating this salad for some time, one spring I used my homegrown strawberries and fresh tarragon to do a little experimenting. It didn't take me very long to come up with a winner! My husband enjoyed my creation as much as I did, and now we can't wait for strawberry season to come around each year. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Herby Pea SaladWe love spring vegetables. One Mother's Day I came up with this flavorful green salad that everyone enjoyed. You could increase the dressing and mix in some cooked small pasta, like acini de pepe, to make it a more robust salad. —Ann Sheehy, Lawrence, Massachusetts
Cilantro-Lime ChickenA bright cilantro-lime chicken marinade soaks bone-in chicken thighs in flavor before they're slow-cooked till they're fall-apart tender.
Tangerine and Thyme Infused WaterWho doesn't love the bright and juicy flavor of tangerine? The addition of thyme really rounds out this infused water. —James Schend, Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin
Strawberry-Rosemary Yogurt PopsWe planted strawberries a few years ago and these tangy-sweet frozen yogurt pops are my very favorite treats to make with them! The options are endless. Try using other yogurt flavors like lemon, raspberry or blueberry. —Carmell Childs, Orangeville, Utah
Cheese and Fresh Herb QuicheWith herbs from the garden to use, I created a quiche with basil, parsley and dill along with feta, Swiss, Gruyere and mozzarella. Goat cheese is also yummy. —Sonya Labbe, West Hollywood, California
Cherry Tomato SaladIn this cherry tomato salad, juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes are dressed lightly with a little oil, vinegar and herbs and given their moment to shine.
Rosemary LemonadeA friend suggested I add a sprig of rosemary to lemonade. The herb makes the drink taste fresh and light, and it's a pretty garnish. —Dixie Graham, Rancho Cucamonga, California
Herbed VinegarThis herb vinegar would be a great addition to your favorite salad dressing or could be used in place of vinegar in any recipe. The terrific flavors of tarragon and basil really shine through. —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Portobello Bruschetta with Rosemary AioliBy caramelizing onions, broiling peppers and whipping up a homemade aioli with fresh herbs, you will add dimensions of flavor not found in store-bought bruschetta. —Stephanie Metzger, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
Cucumber Watermelon SaladRefreshing cucumber watermelon salad combines crisp cucumbers, juicy watermelon, fresh herbs and a tangy vinaigrette for an unforgettable burst of summery flavor.
Rosemary-Lemon Sea SaltMaking flavored sea salt is so easy. Mix in grated lemon peel and minced rosemary for a delicious way to enhance chicken, fish and salads. —Shelley Holman, Scottsdale, Arizona
Smashed PotatoesCrispy smashed potatoes are an easy way to elevate the humble potato to a dish that's perfectly tender and creamy on the inside, with a crackling golden-brown exterior.
Citrus-Tarragon Asparagus SaladI created this colorful salad when I was invited to a friend's Easter egg hunt and potluck picnic. The guests were begging to get my recipe. Let the flavors infuse overnight for the best taste. —Cheryl Magnuson, Apple Valley, California
Strawberry-Basil RefresherFresh strawberries and basil are everywhere, so get them together for a cooler that’s pure sunshine. I garnish with basil leaves and sip outdoors. —Carolyn Turner, Reno, Nevada
Green Bean Potato SaladFor family reunions, my mom would make everybody's favorite green bean and potato salad. Now I'm the one who brings it. —Connie Dicavoli, Shawnee, Kansas
Minted Beet SaladWe have neighbors who share vegetables from their garden, and every year my husband and I look forward to their beets. My interest in Mediterranean food inspired this beet salad recipe—the vinegar and oil dressing with fresh mint tones down the sweetness of the beets, and the kalamata olives add a salty touch. —Barbara Estabrook, Appleton, Wisconsin
Berry-Basil Limeade JamMy husband and I have fun picking fruit. We ended up with too many strawberries, so it was time to make jam, inspired by a mojito recipe. —Erica Ingram, Lakewood, Ohio
Iced Melon Moroccan Mint TeaI grow mint on my balcony, and this refreshing beverage is a wonderful way to use it. It combines two of my favorite drinks—Moroccan Mint Tea and Honeydew Agua Fresca. For extra flair, add some ginger ale. —Sarah Batt Throne, El Cerrito, California
Fresh Cucumber SaladThis easy, fresh cucumber salad is the perfect summer side dish—light, flavorful and packed with hydration. Make this if you're ready to serve up some cool, crisp goodness at your next gathering!
Pork & Chive Pot StickersHere's my top make-ahead appetizer. They are a lot more nutritious than the ones you get at a restaurant. My three kids are old enough to cook these themselves, right from the freezer. —Marisa Raponi, Vaughan, Ontario
Mild Salsa Recipe for CanningThis mild salsa recipe for canning helps keep summer goodness stocked in the pantry year-round.
Cuban ChimichurriThis fresh Cuban sauce wonderfully complements steak, but pour it over a burger, and your taste buds will thank you! —Elaine Sweet, Dallas, Texas
Rhubarb Mint TeaA bumper crop of rhubarb and mint from my garden inspired me to create this thirst-quenching pick-me-up. Raspberries deepen the tea's vibrant red color, making the drinks a pretty addition to your table. —Laurie Bock, Lynden, Washington
Zucchini Patties with Dill DipThese crisp-tender patties are a nice alternative to crab cakes and taste very similar, thanks to the seafood seasoning. They always get gobbled up! —Kelly Maxwell, Plainfield, Illinois
South-of-the-Border Caprese SaladPlump heirloom tomatoes highlight this garden-fresh showpiece, drizzled with a sweet-tart dressing and sprinkled with cheese. It's perfect for an outdoor party and so easy to make! —Kathleen Merkley, Layton, Utah
Dilly Potato & Egg SaladEveryone has a favorite potato salad, and this is mine. As a young bride, I was eager to learn how to cook and make things that my husband would love. I combined my mom's and his mom's recipes, and this potato and egg salad the delicious result. —Angela Leinenbach, Mechanicsville, Virginia
Dill Garden SaladI love to cut up whatever fresh vegetables I have on hand and toss them with this delicious dressing and fresh dill. This salad shows up on our table regularly during the summer. —Bethany Martin, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania
Raspberry Mint JamI have so much mint growing in my yard that I add it to almost everything. What a revelation it was when it went in my raspberry jam—the mint really wakes up the raspberry flavor.—Laurie Bock, Lynden, Washington
Melon with Serrano-Mint SyrupThis is just one of the recipes I developed to take advantage of the fresh mint I grow nearly year-round. The serrano pepper is a nice contrast to the sweetness of the syrup and salad. —Jennifer Fisher, Austin, Texas
Bella Basil Raspberry TeaGive iced tea a grown-up twist. Fragrant basil lends flavor and the raspberries give it a bright red color. Tou’ll love the fun fizz and make-ahead convenience! —Laurie Bock Lynden, Washington
Roasted SalsaMake the most of fresh tomatoes with this recipe for roasted salsa. It's so tasty, you might find yourself eating it right out of the bowl with a spoon!
Lime Basil PieThis sweet lime and basil dessert has a unique taste, plus less calories and fat than the traditional Key lime pie. —Samara Donald, Redmond, Washington. 
