If you’re getting ready to roast some poultry, chances are you’ve grabbed some delicious fresh sage for it. What do you do with the leftover leaves, though? Instead of letting them go to waste, I’ll show you how to dry sage in the microwave.
This is one of the fastest and best ways to dry sage. You’ll be able to store your leftover leaves for later use in a variety of dishes. For example, check out the veggie stuffed squash over in our best acorn squash microwave recipes!
If you’re really curious, you can also learn how to dry sage in the air fryer. It’s just as easy!
Can I Dry Sage in the Microwave?
Yes, you can dry sage in the microwave.
In fact, it’s one of the best ways to dry sage since it’s quick, easy, and fairly foolproof. The microwave drying method works well for other large-leaf herbs as well.
Check out how to dry basil in the microwave and also how to dry mint in the microwave to learn about some other similarly sized herbs.
How to Dry Sage Leaves in the Microwave
- Wash and dry your sage leaves if needed
- Remove sage leaves from the stems
- Place a paper towel on a microwave safe plate
- Spread leaves in a single layer on the paper towel
- Top the layer of sage leaves with another paper towel, tucking the edges under the plate
- Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then check
- Continue microwaving in 30-second increments until sage leaves are dry looking and crinkle when touched
- Crunch sage leaves with your fingers for larger pieces, or use a mortar and pestle to grind leaves into a fine powdery dust (optional)
- Store dried sage in an airtight container or spice jar
While you don’t have to remove the leaves ahead of time, I find it much easier to ensure I get an even dry on them. Leaving the leaves in bunches tends to create overlap whether intended or not, and you end up with wet spots.
If you choose to leave the stems intact, make sure to trim the tough woody part and leave just the thin, soft stems only.
It normally takes me about 3 minutes in total in a 1000W microwave to completely dry fresh sage leaves. However, you may need more or less time if you have a lower or higher wattage microwave, and depending on the size of your leaves.
Oh, and be warned – your whole house will smell like warmed sage as soon as you open the microwave door!
Should You Wash Sage Before Drying in the Microwave?
It is recommended that you wash sage before drying it in the microwave.
Washing your sage helps remove any lingering dirt, debris, and dead leaves from the mix. This makes it easier to dry, and also prevents any contaminants from getting in.
Just give it a good rinse and let it dry a few hours or overnight in preparation.
Is it Safe to Dry Sage in the Microwave?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to dry sage leaves in the microwave.
That said, you do want to remove the tough, woody parts of the stem, as they can actually catch on fire if cooked for too long.
The leaves, however, will nicely dry and crisp up and it’s one of the best ways to dry sage quickly.
Then you’ll always have some on hand when needed. Sage is especially nice on poultry, and in stuffing. Try some on your Thanksgiving turkey, which you can find a great recipe for over in our best LG air fryer oven recipes.
Final Thoughts
Drying sage in the microwave is one of the best ways to dry it. It’s quick, easy, and even a beginner can successfully do it. Whether you have extra from the store or an overflowing herb garden, you now have a great way to dehydrate your sage for later use.
Sage is great for roasts, stews, herb butter, sausage, and pairs nicely with root vegetables. It’s also delicious in browned butter sauce with gnocchi or ravioli, and highlights the flavor of butternut squash so well.
You could even use sage to season some air fryer butternut squash fries for a warm and fall-inspired spin!
Dried Fresh Sage Leaves in the Microwave
Equipment
- Microwave
- Plate safe for microwave use
Ingredients
- 3 Bunches fresh sage leaves washed and dried if needed
Instructions
- Place a paper towel on a microwave safe plate
- Remove sage leaves from the stems by pinching at the base and pulling apart with your fingers3 Bunches fresh sage leaves
- Spread leaves in a single layer on the paper towel
- Top the layer of sage leaves with another paper towel, tucking the edges under the plate
- Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then check
- Continue microwaving in 30-second increments until sage leaves are dry looking and crinkle when touched
- Crunch sage leaves with your fingers for larger pieces, or use a mortar and pestle to grind leaves into a fine powdery dust (optional)
- Store dried sage in an airtight container or spice jar
Notes
- Average sage drying time is about 3 minutes in a 1000W microwave
- Try not to overlap leaves on plate, and lay them as flat as possible to start (they will naturally curl up more as they dry)
- Tucking the ends of the paper towel under the plate keep it from flying off and knocking your herbs around in the microwave
- This amount of fresh sage should produce around 1 Tbsp ground dried sage
- Breaking with your fingers gives you larger pieces, whereas using a mortar and pestle will get you a fine, powder-like grind
- Store in an airtight container or spice jar for best results
- Dry sage keeps well for 2-3 years if stored properly. After that, while still safe to consume, it loses potency and flavor significantly
Nutrition
I enjoy trying new recipes, creating my own, and dabbling with new techniques all the time. My husband loves to protest when I make him my guinea pig, but it’s all for the love of food!
My cooking philosophy is that great tasting food doesn't have to be complicated or time consuming to make. I'm a home cook with over 20 years of experience feeding myself and others. I've learned from a variety of different people, things I've learned online, and some trial and error as well.
I enjoy cooking a variety of foods, from convenience to comfort foods, as well as international cuisine. You can rest assured that all of my recipes have been actually made, thoroughly tested, and most importantly: tasted! I want you to enjoy my food as much as I do!
- Air Fryer Refried Beans With Canned Pinto Beans - April 24, 2024
- Guava Margarita: Easy Guavarita Drink Recipe! - April 22, 2024
- Air Fryer Avocado Egg Rolls (Cheesecake Factory Copycat) - April 21, 2024
