PRESERVE THE FRESHNESS OF VEGETABLES LONGER WITH THESE 5 STRATEGIES

Consuming fresh vegetables into our daily diet holds significance as it provides us with essential vitamins and nutrients that is important for maintaining our health and overall fitness.

The term "fresh vegetables" doesn't exclusively pertain to vegetables picked directly from the garden; it can also encompass vegetables harvested a few days earlier and stored meticulously to retain their freshness.

Knowing the proper storage of vegetables is essential since it enables us to maintain their nutrient content, texture, and flavor even when they have been harvested for several days. This approach also ensures that we make the most of our investment, avoiding wastage of the money we've spent on purchasing them.

1. Avoid washing vegetables before storage.

Keeping vegetables wet can increase their susceptibility to bacterial growth. Instead, it's advisable to gently dry them with a cloth or paper towel before placing them in storage. The best practice is to wash vegetables shortly before you intend to use them.

2. Eliminate any damaged or spoiled vegetables from the group.

Vegetables that show signs of damage or impending spoilage can potentially impact the overall quality of the other vegetables in the container. It's a wise habit to thoroughly inspect all the items in the package prior to storage to prevent any contamination.

3. For leafy greens, wrap them in paper towels and store them in a plastic bag before refrigerating.

Using paper towels helps to absorb excess moisture, particularly in leafy vegetables. This technique is also effective for sliced vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and peppers, aiding in preserving their freshness for a longer period.

4. Preserve herbs by placing them in a cup of cold water.

You might have observed in cooking shows how chefs snip fresh herbs from a cup, much like arranging freshly cut flowers in a vase with water. This method helps herbs remain fresher for an extended duration.

5. Keep root crops and bulbs in a dark plastic bag.

Root crops and bulbs tend to sprout when they are exposed to sunlight. To prevent this, store items like potatoes, onions, ginger, and garlic in dark plastic bags, which shield them from sunlight exposure.