3 days ago
Spinach will last longer than ever using one kitchen staple
Spinach is a versatile vegetable to have in any kitchen, but it can quickly go limp and slimy if not stored correctly. One expert has shared her best tips for keeping it fresh for longer
Spinach is a versatile vegetable that's a staple in many kitchens, used in everything from quick salads and omelettes to smoothies and pasta dishes. However, the frustration of buying a bag of spinach only to find it wilted and slimy after a few days is all too familiar.
Vegetarian cooking expert Taesha Butler, from The Natural Nurturer, has revealed her straightforward method for keeping spinach fresh for up to a week, sometimes even longer. Here's what you need to know to master your storage techniques.
Begin with the freshest spinach you can find
Look for bright green leaves that are firm and springy. Avoid bunches or pre-packaged bags that already show signs of yellowing, slimy patches, or excess moisture, reports the Express.
Even the best storage methods can't revive leaves that are past their best.
Ensure spinach is dry before storing
Moisture is the main enemy when it comes to wilting spinach. If you've washed the leaves beforehand, ensure they're thoroughly dry.
A salad spinner is ideal for removing excess water, but if you don't have one, lay the leaves between two clean kitchen towels and let them air-dry. You want the spinach as dry as possible so your paper towels (see next tip) can effectively absorb natural moisture.
Utilise paper towels to soak up moisture
Line the bottom of a container with 2-3 sheets of paper towel. Place a layer of dry spinach on top, then add another sheet of paper towel and layer more spinach if needed.
The towels serve as a moisture barrier, preventing the leaves from sitting in their own condensation and thus slowing down spoilage. For larger containers, layering is particularly effective as it allows every leaf to remain crisp.
It's crucial to remove any bad leaves immediately
Even a few damaged or soft leaves can cause the rest of the spinach to deteriorate. Before storing, quickly sift through your batch and discard anything that's already beginning to rot.
Store in a sealed container in the fridge
Once layered and sorted, seal the container and place it in the fridge. Cold temperatures slow down the natural decay process, keeping your spinach fresh for longer.
Avoid overpacking - spinach needs some breathing space, and cramming too many leaves into tight spaces can trap unwanted moisture.
Choose the right container
There are several suitable options for storing spinach:.
Don't wash until you're ready to eat.
Whenever possible, keep spinach unwashed until you're ready to use it. Extra water accelerates rotting, so leaving it dry from the start is one of the simplest ways to maintain freshness.
