Garlic lovers rejoice with just how easy it is to store garlic. Garlic, known for its robust taste and health benefits, requires specific conditions to stay fresh and potent.

Storing garlic properly is essential for maintaining its flavor and extending its shelf life, whether you’re dealing with fresh bulbs or peeled cloves. Understanding these storage methods will help ensure that your garlic remains a flavorful and useful ingredient in your kitchen

Related: How To Store Fresh Herbs

How Long Does Garlic Last?

There are several ways to answer this loaded question! However, the shelf life of garlic depends on its form and how it’s stored. Let’s get into it…

How to Store Whole Garlic

To store whole garlic bulbs, place them in a cool (not cold) and dry location with good air circulation. A pantry, cupboard, bowl or mesh bag work well. They can help prevent moisture buildup and promote proper ventilation, which helps avoid mold and sprouting. 

Keep garlic bulbs away from direct sunlight and any other heat sources. They can accelerate deterioration. 

It’s also important to avoid storing garlic in the refrigerator, as the cold environment can encourage sprouting and negatively impact its flavor. 

By following these storage, whole garlic bulbs can maintain their flavor and quality for 4 to 6 months.

How to Store Garlic Cloves

While keeping your garlic whole gives you the longest shelf life, sometimes you peel more than you need for a recipe.

To store garlic cloves, first ensure they are kept in a cool, dry place to preserve their freshness and flavor. If you’ve already peeled or broken the garlic from its bulb, place the cloves in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about 1 to 2 weeks.

How to Store Cut or Minced Garlic

To store minced or diced garlic, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will only stay fresh for up to 2 days. This short-term storage helps preserve its robust flavor and prevents it from drying out or becoming overly pungent. 

Can You Freeze Garlic?

The simple answer is…yes!

Freezing garlic is a great way to preserve its flavor and ensure you always have it on hand for all of your favorite dishes. Here are some methods to freeze garlic effectively:

Freezing: Cloves of Garlic

Whole heads or unpeeled cloves are not recommended to be frozen. In order to prepare to freeze your garlic, you should first peel the cloves.

Next, arrange the peeled cloves on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until they’re frozen solid. This will help prevent the cloves from sticking together.

Transfer the frozen cloves to an airtight container or a freezer bag and label. 

When you are ready to use the frozen garlic you can either use immediately or let it thaw. It may depend on what you are using it for.

Freezing: Minced or Cut Garlic

Freezing garlic in ice cube trays is a convenient and efficient way to store for easy use. To do this, start by peeling and mincing or pureeing the garlic, depending on your preference. 

Spoon the garlic into the compartments of the ice cube tray, filling them nearly to the top. Add a little water to each compartment. You can also add other herbs if you want a little extra flavor mixed with your garlic. Place the tray in the freezer and allow the garlic to freeze solid. Once frozen, transfer the garlic cubes to an airtight container or freezer bag. Store them in the freezer. 

This method allows you to easily pop out a pre-measured amount of garlic for cooking, reducing prep time and minimizing waste. Plus, the garlic retains most of its flavor and aroma, making it a practical solution for busy kitchens.

Related: How To Freeze Herbs

Ways To Enjoy Garlic

Garlic is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes. Here are some popular ways to enjoy garlic:

Roasted Garlic: Roasting garlic softens its sharp flavor and turns it sweet and nutty. Spread the roasted cloves on bread or mix them into mashed potatoes. Did you know that you can even roast garlic in the air fryer or a slow cooker?

Garlic Butter: Mix minced garlic with butter to create a flavorful spread for bread, a topping for steaks, or a base for sauces.

Infused Oil: Heat olive oil with garlic to create a fragrant oil for drizzling over pasta, salads, or vegetables. Plus, infused olive oils make great gifts!

Garlic Paste: Blend garlic with a bit of salt and oil to make a smooth paste. It can be used in marinades, dressings, or as a seasoning.

In Stir-Fries: Add minced or sliced garlic to stir-fried vegetables, meats, or tofu for a burst of flavor.

Pasta Dishes: Sauté garlic and add it to pasta dishes, such as spaghetti or lasagna for a simple yet delicious flavor.

Garlic for Pickling: Pickles: We love pickling to extend the shelf life of fresh produce.

In Dressings: Blend garlic into vinaigrettes or creamy dressings to add a punch of flavor to your salads.

Garlic in Soups and Stews: Add garlic to soups and stews for depth and complexity, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

These are just a few ways to incorporate garlic into your cooking, each offering a unique way to enjoy its distinctive flavor. 

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