Strawberries are amazing berries, full of flavor and vitamins, but they only taste great when they are fresh.
When stored wrong, they can become soft and wet pretty quickly, so you need to know how to keep them fresh for as long as you can.
Here are some tips for you.
Handle strawberries gently
Hold them by the stem or the cap rather than squeezing the fruit itself.
Don't wash until ready to use
It's best to avoid washing strawberries until you're ready to consume or prepare them.
Excess moisture can lead to spoilage.
Sort and remove damaged berries
Inspect your strawberries and remove any that show signs of mold, decay, or damage.
Store in the refrigerator
Strawberries are perishable and require refrigeration to extend their shelf life.
Avoid sealing them in an airtight container, as it can lead to moisture buildup and accelerate spoilage.
Keep them dry
Make sure the strawberries are dry before storing them in the refrigerator.
If they are damp, gently pat them dry with a paper towel before placing them in the storage container.
Store without the stems
To prolong their freshness, it's generally recommended to remove the stems or caps of strawberries before storing them.
Consume them promptly
Strawberries are best when consumed within a few days of purchase.
The longer they are stored, the more their quality may deteriorate.
Aim to use them while they are fresh and at their peak flavor.