If you are storing your fruits and veggies that way your grandmother used to store them, you may want to rethink things. So many things have changed since the good ole days making some of granny’s methods not so great. Here is a list of some of your favorites and how to properly store them to maintain their nutrients and maximum freshness.
Avocado: Avocados will ripen when left on the counter top and will slow the ripening process if stored in the fridge. So it’s up to you where you store them based on how ripe they are when you buy them. It’s perfectly fine to leave them on the counter for a few days until they are just about ripe and then move them to the cool environment of the refrigerator. This will prevent over-ripening and will assure you always have a ready-to-go avocado when the need arises.
Broccoli: Although it looks hearty, broccoli needs to be kept in the refrigerator and should be used within 3-5 days for maximum taste.
Cauliflower: Just like broccoli, cauliflower should be stored in the refrigerator however it does last a bit longer. Cauliflower should be used within 7 days.
Citrus: While your lemons, limes and oranges look great in the fruit bowl on your dining room table, you may want to store them in the refrigerator if you aren’t going to consume them quickly. Refrigerated citrus will last weeks longer.
Cucumbers: Ever notice that cukes stored in the fridge eventually get soft spots and start leaking water? That’s because they are temperature sensitive. Storing your cuke on the countertop will give it a much longer life span and a better flavor.
Grapes: Many people prefer their grapes to be room temperature however grapes are fragile and will start turning rotten pretty quickly if not refrigerated. So you if you one of the many who prefer to eat yours at room temp, remove them from the fridge 30 minutes before consuming.
Kale: Keep stored in the refrigerator to maintain crispness and use within 7 days for max taste and benefits.
Mushrooms: 7 days in the refrigerator is about the longest mushrooms will last. You will know they have reached their limit when they begin to turn darker in color and start to feel a bit slimy to the touch.
Onions: Best if kept on the counter and also best if kept away from other fruits and veggies. Left on their own onions will last several weeks.
Potatoes: If you have a root cellar your potatoes are going to love you. They prefer cool temps (but not refrigerated) and dark areas. If you have a dark pantry or a basement, that would be ideal. Once they start to sprout (or as your grandmother may have said “they grew eyes”) they are about to turn bad so go ahead and use them up.
The list could go on and on. If you have a specific question about storing your fruits and veggies, pop on over to my Facebook page and ask away. I will be happy to help you out.