John Myers
To keep vegetables fresh for as long as possible, it is important to store them in the right place. Each type of vegetable has its own requirements for the perfect storage location where it stays crisp and tasty.
Rule of thumb for storing vegetables
Any type of vegetable is the happiest in the climate in which it is grown. This means that heat-loving vegetables such as peppers or aubergines are better stored at room temperature than in the fridge. Potatoes and types of cabbage love it cool and dark, which is why they are best kept in a storage cellar. You can safely put salads or asparagus in the refrigerator to achieve the longest possible shelf life.
Vegetables that are well stored in the refrigerator
Vegetables that can withstand cold temperatures and are not affected by high humidity belong in the fridge. The refrigerator is the right place, especially for the short-term storage of different types of vegetables. However, vegetables with a high water content do not tolerate the cold well and lose their flavor in the refrigerator.
The refrigerator is the best place to store:
- Leafy greens (salads, spinach, chard)
- Peas
- Corn
- artichokes
- Leek
- Mushrooms
- asparagus
Types of vegetables for which a storage cellar is ideal
Tubers in particular can be stored well in a cool storage cellar. In the basement, the vegetables are airier than in the vegetable compartment, which is why they rarely mold. Starchy vegetables, especially potatoes, like it cool, but not cold, otherwise they convert their starch into sugar and taste unpleasant.
You can store the following varieties well in the cellar:
- celery
- Kohlrabi
- potatoes
- pumpkins
- sweet potatoes
- Brassicas (hanging upside down by the intact stalk)
- Root Vegetables (in wet sandboxes)
Vegetables that tolerate room temperature
Airy storage at moderate temperatures is suitable for many types of vegetables that are in the high season in summer and have high water content. When cold, they lose their aroma. When storing food in the kitchen, it is important to have a shady place that is not exposed to heat, for example not directly by the window or next to electrical appliances. Vegetables stored at room temperature should be eaten soon, as they don’t keep as long as refrigerated varieties.
You can store the following varieties at room temperature:
- eggplants
- zucchini
- tomatoes
- paprika
- cucumbers
- avocados
- green beans
