Tips for Storing Produce to Keep it Fresh

My grocery cart always has more fresh produce than anything else in it.  We eat a lot of fruits and vegetables.  I have learned some tips over the years for storing produce to keep it fresh and extend its life.  These are things you need to do as soon as you get home from the store but it only takes minutes.

Storing Produce to Maximize Freshness

Some produce should be left at room temperature to maximize flavor; others need to be washed and dried before putting them in the fridge.  The internet is full of suggestions.  These are my tried and true tips on how I make my produce last longer.

Radishes

I love radishes for snacking and to put them in my salads.  Sometimes I splurge and make a sandwich with bread, butter, sliced radishes and salt (often seen in tea sandwiches).  Delish!

The best radishes are the colorful radishes sold in a bunch, greens and all.  Stay away from the bagged radishes.

If you put the radishes in the fridge the greens will wilt and start to rot.  I cut the stems off and trim the radishes.  I store them in a plastic container in cold water in the fridge.  They stay fresh and crunchy all week.  I change the water every day.

Tomatoes

It used to be that we only had access to great tomatoes during the summer.  Now there are so many more varieties and many of them are pretty good.  I love the orange and red grape tomatoes and the cherry tomatoes.  I enjoy snacking on these so I rinse them when I get home and let them air dry.  Once dry, I store in a bowl on the counter.  I do not refrigerate these as it compromises the flavor.

Cucumbers

Mini seedless cucumbers are a staple in our home.  If you keep them in the bag, they can get soft and mushy from the moisture.  I extend the life by adding a paper towel to the bag to absorb the moisture and keep them dry.  Mid-week I replace the paper towel with a new one.

Celery

I learned this tip last year and shared it on the blog.  Dry your celery and then wrap in aluminum foil.  It will keep your celery fresh and crisp.

Carrots

The most flavorful carrots are the ones with the greens attached.  I cut the greens off, wash and peel the carrots.  I store these in a plastic container filled with water in the fridge.  You will need to change the water every few days.

Mint, Parsley & Cilantro

I always have fresh mint, parsley and cilantro on hand.  Fresh herbs add great flavor to many salads and recipes.

I place the fresh herbs in a glass of water and cover with a plastic bag.  I store them in the fridge. They will last for two weeks this way.

Garlic, Onions and Potatoes

I store my garlic, onions and potatoes in a mesh tiered stand.  I read that they like their mesh bags which allow for circulation so any type of open container such as a wired basket will do.

I separate the onions from the potatoes as potatoes emit moisture and gases that can cause the onions to rot.

They should not be refrigerated.

Lemons & Limes

I use a lot of lemons and limes and buy them in bulk at Costco.  Visit my post For Lovers of Lemon Juice for my tips on how to always have fresh lemon juice on hand.

What tips do you have to keep your produce lasting longer?  Please share in the comments below.

Thanks for stopping by!