How to Store Fresh Strawberries

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Strawberries and summer go hand-in-hand. There is nothing like biting into a juicy red strawberry and letting the juice run down your chin. How do you keep those fresh strawberries from spoiling?

Storing strawberries can be challenging, especially since we have no idea how long it has been since they were picked and then put on a truck to be delivered miles and miles to the grocery store. How long will they last? Well, it just depends on a couple of things. What kind of shape are they in when you purchase them. Are they firm? Or soft and mushy? Click here for some great tips on how to pick store-bought strawberries.

When you buy firm and ripe berries, there are a few things you can do to extend the life of your strawberries.

On the counter: if you are using your berries on the same day that you buy them, let them sit out on your kitchen counter at room temperature.

In the refrigerator: if you are not using your berries on the same day, storing them in the refrigerator crisper drawer will keep them for about 5 to 7 days. To store them, remove the strawberries from their original container. Do not wash the berries until you are ready to eat or use them. Store the fruit whole with their stems in a paper towel-lined bowl or plastic bag. If storing in a ziplock bag, do not close the bag all the way.

In the freezer. If you are not going to use your berries within a week, freezing them is quick and easy to do. After removing the stems, wash and dry the strawberries. Place whole or halved berries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Remove from baking sheet and store in a ziplock freezer bag or container. Use frozen strawberries within a year. They are perfect to use in smoothies, compotes, crisps and pies.

Did you know that people eat an average of three-and-a-half pounds of strawberries per year? That is a whole lotta berry goodness!!!