Preparing delicious food starts with obtaining the ingredients. It can be frustrating to meticulously plan your meals, only to have your ingredients whither or rot before you get to use them. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years to extend the life of my groceries:
Greens Should Be Stored With A Paper Towel
To prevent that spinach or those salad greens from going bad before you get to use them, place them in a lidded container with a paper towel. The paper towel will soak up the excess moisture that would otherwise ruin your greens. Be sure to change out the paper towel as it fills with moisture.
Keep Your Fresh Herbs Like Flowers
If you are purchasing fresh rosemary, basil, or mint (or any other herb stalks), when they come home from the market, you should clip the edges of the stalks and store them upright in water.
Use Wax Paper to Keep Cheese Fresh
Do not wrap cheese in foil or plastic wrap. Tightly wrapping it with wax paper and then storing in a plastic baggie will ensure it stays longest for the freshest amount of time.
Don’t Keep Dairy in the Doors
If you want your cottage cheese, milk, and other dairy products to last as long as possible. Store them in a neutral location, such a middle shelf. The top shelves can typically be warmer, as that is where the lights in the fridge are located, and the doors are exposed to room temperature more frequently.