Summer time is the best time to stock up on fresh produce. From juicy tomatoes to crisp cucumbers, the variety of summer fruits and vegetables available can be a great addition to any Citrus Pear meal. However, if you’re like me, keeping your produce fresh until you use it can be tricky. To help you make the most of your seasonal goodies, here are some tips and tricks to keep your produce fresh for longer.

1. Store Produce Properly

Each type of produce has its own storage needs.

• Tomatoes: Keep them at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. Only refrigerate once they are fully ripe to extend their life by a few days.
• Berries: Store in the fridge in a single layer if possible. Transfer to containers with strainers that keep the fruit out of the juice that collects in the bottom. Don’t wash until you’re ready to eat them to prevent mold.
• Leafy Greens: Wrap in a paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the fridge. The paper towel will absorb excess moisture.
• Cucumbers: Store in the fridge, but keep them away from bananas, tomatoes, and melons, which can cause them to spoil faster. Don’t wash until you’re ready to use. 
• Stone Fruits: Let peaches, plums, and nectarines ripen at room temperature, then move to the fridge to extend their shelf life.

2. Use Perforated Bags

Perforated plastic bags or produce bags can help maintain the right humidity for your fruits and vegetables, keeping them fresh longer. The small holes allow air to circulate while retaining enough moisture to prevent drying out.

3. Keep Your Fridge Organized

A well-organized fridge can make a big difference in how long your produce stays fresh. Store fruits and vegetables in separate drawers. Fruits can give off gases that cause vegetables to spoil faster. Use the humidity controls in your crisper drawers to keep produce fresh: high humidity for leafy greens and low humidity for most fruits.

4. Freeze Excess Produce

If you find yourself with more produce than you can use before it spoils, consider freezing it. Berries, peaches, and tomatoes can be frozen whole or sliced. Blanch vegetables like green beans, corn, and zucchini before freezing to preserve their texture and flavor.

5. Keep Herbs Fresh

Fresh herbs can add a burst of flavor to any dish, but they can wilt quickly. To keep them fresh, trim the ends and place them in a jar with an inch of water, like a bouquet of flowers. Cover loosely with a plastic bag and store in the fridge. Basil is the exception—store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight.

6. Avoid Overcrowding

Overcrowding can cause produce to bruise and spoil faster. Give your fruits and vegetables some space to breathe, both in storage and in the fridge. This will help prevent premature ripening and decay.

7. Regularly Check for Spoilage

Make it a habit to check your produce regularly for signs of spoilage. Remove any items that are starting to go bad to prevent them from affecting the rest of your fresh produce. This proactive approach can save the majority of your fruits and vegetables from going to waste.

Conclusion

With a little care and attention, you can enjoy the delicious taste of summer produce for longer. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to reduce waste and make the most of the season. Happy eating!

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