Nothing beats the taste of a perfectly ripe, juicy tomato—unless it's gone soft or mouldy before you get the chance to enjoy it. But what if you could keep your tomatoes fresh and delicious for weeks longer? The secret lies in where and how you store them.
The Biggest Tomato Storage Mistake
Many of us instinctively pop tomatoes in the fridge, thinking it will preserve them. However, refrigeration actually ruins their texture and flavour, leaving them mealy and bland. The cold temperature breaks down the tomato's cell structure, affecting its natural juiciness.
The Right Way to Store Tomatoes
For maximum freshness, follow these simple steps:
- Keep them at room temperature: Store tomatoes stem-side down on your countertop, away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid plastic bags: Trapped moisture speeds up spoilage. Instead, place them in a breathable bowl or paper bag.
- Separate from other produce: Tomatoes release ethylene gas, which can cause nearby fruits and veggies to ripen (and spoil) too quickly.
When to Use the Fridge (Yes, Sometimes!)
If your tomatoes are perfectly ripe and you can't eat them in time, then refrigeration can help slow down further ripening. Just let them come back to room temperature before eating to restore their full flavour.
With this simple storage hack, you’ll enjoy garden-fresh tomatoes in salads, sandwiches, and sauces for much longer—no more wasted produce!
