When most of us get back from the grocery store with plastic bags full of fresh vegetables and herbs, we usually don’t think twice before putting them straight into the fridge wherever there’s space. If you’re one of these people, you might often see your fruits and veggies spoil before you get a chance to enjoy them. Next time you come home with groceries, use this guide to save money and keep your produce fresh for the longest time possible.
Carrots (or any root vegetable)
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The best way to keep your carrots crunchy for the longest time is to refrigerate them in a sealed container with some water. All you have to do is change out the water every day and you’re good to go.
Leafy Greens For Your Salad
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You can have the crispiest spinach for up to 3 weeks if you handle them well. If they’re pre-washed, seal them tight in a plastic container lined with paper towels to keep them cold and dry in the fridge.
Onion and Garlic
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Craft time! Hole-punch a bunch of paper bags to store your onions and garlic in a cool and dry setting for months at a time. Air circulation is the key point here.
Basil and Parsley
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If you’ve ever watched Food Network, you’ve probably seen the proper way to store soft, leafy herbs like basil and parsley: plopping them into a glass of water at room temperature. It’s the foolproof way to keep vibrant, green herbs for the longest time.
Cucumbers
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Cucumbers don’t do well when they’re in below 50 degree weather, so keep them out of the fridge. Also, to ensure maximum freshness, make sure your cucumbers aren’t next to ethylene-producing fruits like bananas and tomatoes. They will only spoil them faster.
Thyme and Rosemary
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These herbs just won’t thrive when placed in a glass of water. They should be wrapped in a paper towel and plastic wrap, then stored in the compartment door of your fridge.
Whole Avocados
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If you’re looking to use them up in a day or two, consider leaving them out on the counter in a paper bag so the trapped ethylene gas can get soft and ripe. If not, the fridge will slow the ripening process so you can take your time using them.
Bell Peppers
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Bell peppers are kept at their best when they’re put in a plastic bag and kept in the fridge drawer. Considering how most of us probably store all our vegetables this way, it shouldn’t be too hard.