Drying Fresh Herbs in an Air Fryer: How I Preserve My Garden All Winter

One of the best things about gardening is being able to enjoy the flavors long after summer is over. Last year I started drying some of my homegrown herbs using my air fryer and it worked better than I expected. I used this method with chives and thyme and I loved how easy it was. This year I plan to add basil to the mix.

If you grow herbs in your backyard or on your patio, this is a simple way to preserve them and enjoy homegrown flavor all winter long. It does not take fancy equipment or much time and it is surprisingly satisfying to see your dried herbs neatly stored and ready for cooking.


🍃 Why Use an Air Fryer for Drying Herbs

Air fryers are not just for crispy potatoes. Most models have a low heat setting that works really well for drying herbs. It is quick, efficient, and does not heat up your whole kitchen like an oven might. Plus, it helps preserve more of the flavor and color compared to letting herbs air dry for days.

👉 My Ninja Airfryer with Dehydrate Setting on Amazon (affiliate link)

🌱 Herbs That Grow Well in Michigan and Can Be Dehydrated

Here are some herbs that do well in Michigan’s growing season and can be dried for winter use:

  • Chives

  • Thyme

  • Basil

  • Oregano

  • Sage

  • Mint

  • Rosemary

  • Parsley

  • Dill

  • Lemon balm

If you already have a few of these growing in your garden or pots, they are excellent candidates for drying.

🪴 How I Dehydrate Herbs with My Air Fryer

Here is my simple process for drying herbs with an air fryer:

  1. Harvest your herbs
    Pick herbs in the morning after the dew has dried. Choose healthy leaves or stems. Rinse gently and pat dry with a clean towel or let them air dry for a few minutes.

  2. Prep for drying
    Remove thick stems and keep the leaves or smaller sprigs. For things like basil or chives, I cut them into smaller pieces so they dry evenly.

  3. Air fryer settings
    Set your air fryer to the lowest temperature setting, usually around 100 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If your air fryer does not go that low, try using the dehydrate function if it has one.

  4. Arrange herbs in a single layer
    Place your herbs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd them so air can circulate.

  5. Dry in small batches
    Check herbs every 2 to 3 minutes. Most herbs only take 5 to 15 minutes to fully dry depending on the size and type. They should crumble easily when done.

  6. Cool and store
    Let them cool completely. Then crush and store in airtight jars away from heat and light.

🍽️ How I Store My Dried Herbs

I like to keep my dried herbs in handmade spice jars that I label using my Cricut. It makes them feel extra special and makes it easy to find what I need when I am cooking. These jars also look beautiful on the shelf and would make a great homemade gift. See my post about making Cricut vinyl labels.

💡 Helpful Tips

  • Dry one type of herb at a time to keep the flavors clean

  • Use parchment paper in your air fryer basket if your herbs are very small

  • Label and date your jars to keep track of freshness

  • Store your herbs in a cool dry place for best results

📝 Simple Wrap-Up

Drying herbs is one of my favorite ways to stretch the benefits of gardening into the colder months. If you have an air fryer and a few herb plants, you are ready to get started. It is simple, rewarding, and a great way to enjoy your garden all year.

Do you have favorite herbs you like to dry? Let me know in the comments. I am always looking for new ones to try.

Sensibly and simply yours,
Kat

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Location: Michigan, USA

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