4. The Ideal Spot for Apples: Crisper Drawers Over Bowls
Apples are one of the few fruits that truly benefit from being stored in the refrigerator. The crisper drawer is the perfect spot, as it helps maintain the right humidity level to keep apples fresh and crisp. Before storing, remove any apples with bruises or blemishes, as these can cause others to spoil more quickly.
If you prefer to keep your apples at room temperature, be aware that they will ripen much faster. In a bowl on the countertop, apples will last about a week, but in the refrigerator, they can remain fresh for several weeks.
5. Leafy Greens: How to Keep Them Crisp and Fresh
Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale are prone to wilting and losing their crispness if not stored properly. To keep them fresh, first rinse the greens thoroughly and then dry them completely using a salad spinner or paper towels. Excess moisture can lead to spoilage.
Once dried, wrap the greens in a dry paper towel and store them in a breathable container or perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. This method helps maintain the right balance of moisture and airflow, keeping your greens fresh for up to a week.
6. Berries and Their Fragile Nature: The Right Way to Store
Berries are delicate fruits that require careful storage to prevent spoilage. Before storing, sort through them and remove any that are moldy or damaged, as they can quickly affect the rest. Avoid washing berries until right before consumption, as moisture can accelerate mold growth.
Store berries in the refrigerator in a single layer on a paper towel-lined tray or container. This setup helps absorb excess moisture and allows air circulation. Some people find that placing a fresh paper towel on top of the berries can also help extend their freshness.
7. Citrus Fruits: Should They Be Refrigerated?
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes can be stored at room temperature if you plan to consume them within a week. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended. The crisper drawer works well, as it helps maintain the right humidity and temperature.
To prevent them from drying out, you can store citrus fruits in a mesh bag or in the produce drawer without any covering. If you find that the skin is starting to dry, consider placing them in a sealed plastic bag to retain moisture.
8. Bananas: The Right Time and Place for Ripening
Bananas are unique in that they continue to ripen after being picked. To ripen bananas, store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, ideally hanging from a banana hook to prevent bruising. If you want to slow down the ripening process, once they reach the desired ripeness, move them to the refrigerator.
In the fridge, the skin may turn brown, but the fruit inside will remain fresh for a few more days. If bananas become overripe, consider peeling and freezing them for use in smoothies or baking.
You are doing it all wrong. Here's the right way to store produce
