Storing vegetables properly is essential to keep them fresh for a longer time. According to Kristin Marr, founder of Live Simply and a well-known chef, certain vegetables like lettuce require special moisture levels and cannot tolerate excessive moisture. This means that washing leafy vegetables before using them can cause damage. Vegetables need airy space to “breathe,” and if they are kept in sealed plastic packaging, moisture can accumulate and cause damage. On the other hand, if the air is too dry, vegetables can wilt quickly.
Kristin Marr suggests a simple preservation method that can extend the freshness of lettuce, kale, and spinach for another week or more. The method involves separating the vegetable leaves from the tubers, placing them in a zip bag with a paper towel, sealing the bag, and storing it in the refrigerator. The paper towel helps absorb excess moisture, preventing the vegetables from becoming too wet and spoiling prematurely. It’s also important not to pack the bags too tightly as vegetables need air circulation to stay fresh.
Using this method not only helps retain many of the healthy nutrients in the vegetables but also ensures that they last longer in the refrigerator. By properly storing your vegetables, you can enjoy fresh produce throughout the week without having to worry about spoilage or waste.