How to Keep Peppers, Onions, and Tomatoes Longer in the Refrigerator

Peppers, onions and tomatoes can be easily damaged if we don't store them properly. What to do if we have leftover pieces or want them to last longer? We'll explain the answer here!

Refrigerator food preservation at home is an ideal way to keep food in good condition. That’s why there are different methods for storing peppers, onions, and tomatoes, which are three of the most commonly used products in the kitchen.

They add flavor, color, and nutrients to our dishes, but they can also deteriorate if not stored properly. If you are looking for tips on how to store them, whole or cut, either in the fridge or in the freezer, you came to the right article. Keep reading!

How to preserve the flavor and freshness of peppers

Peppers are a good source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. If we’re going to consume them soon, we can store them whole in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator, without cleaning or cutting them. This way they will retain their freshness for one or two weeks.

If we have cut or roasted peppers, we can store them in a container with a lid or in a resealable plastic bag. In this way, they will withstand up to five days in the refrigerator.

Another option is to freeze the peppers, whether they are raw or roasted. We must wash them, dry them, remove the seeds, and cut them into pieces. Then, we put them on a tray and put them in the freezer for a few hours. When they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container and store them for up to 12 months.

According to research, whole peppers stored in the refrigerator at 7 °C for 21 days keep their vitamin C content, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds, which are what give them their antioxidant potential, almost intact.

Follow these tips so as not to fail when preserving peppers:

• Avoid storing peppers near fruits that produce ethylene, such as apples or bananas, as this gas accelerates the ripening and deterioration of vegetables.
• If you want to preserve peppers in vinegar, you can follow this recipe: wash and dry the peppers, cut them into strips, and put them in a sterilized glass jar. Add a mixture of vinegar, water, salt, sugar, garlic, and spices to taste. Cover the jar and let it stand in a cool, dark place for at least one month before consuming.
• If you want to preserve the dried peppers, you can use an electric dehydrator, an oven, or the sun. Wash and dry the peppers, remove the seeds, and cut them into small pieces. Spread them out on a tray and dry them with the method of your choice until crisp.

Is it better to store the peppers whole or cut?

It depends on how long you are going to use them. If you are going to use them in a few days, it’s better to keep them whole, so that they don’t lose moisture or flavor. If it will take longer or if you only need a part of the bell pepper, you can cut it and store it in an airtight container or a resealable bag.

What to do if the peppers become soft or wrinkled?

Soft or wrinkled peppers indicate that they have lost water and freshness. It’s best to consume them as soon as possible or use them to make a recipe that requires cooked peppers, such as a stir-fry, sauce, or cream.

What to do to keep onions fresh and in their best condition

Onions are an essential ingredient in many recipes, as they provide flavor, aroma, and nutrients. However, for them to keep better and not spoil, we must take into account some aspects:

• Choosing the onions is the first step to keep them in good condition. It’s best if they’re dry, hard, and without sprouts or signs of humidity or deterioration. Onions with black spots or mold should also be discarded.
• If we are not going to use the onions for a while, we can store them whole in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a cupboard or pantry. It’s not advisable to put them in the refrigerator, because the humidity will cause them to rot or sprout.
• If we have split or chopped onions, we can keep them in the refrigerator, but always in a container with a lid or in a plastic bag that can be sealed.
• We can freeze the onions, peel them, wash them, dry them, and cut them into pieces. Then, place them on a tray and put them in the freezer for a few hours. When they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 12 months.

What to do if onions start to sprout?

If onions start to sprout, it means that they’re entering their reproductive cycle and are losing quality. It’s best to consume them as soon as possible or plant them in a pot with soil to obtain new onions.

Can onions be preserved in vinegar?

Yes, onions can be preserved in vinegar as long as a proper sterilization and packaging process is followed. Vinegar acts as a natural preservative that prevents the growth of microorganisms and maintains the flavor and texture of the onions.

Tips for preserving tomatoes and extending their shelf life

These vegetables are an excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant that protects the skin. To keep tomatoes in good condition, we should choose those that are firm, without bruises or stains.

If we are going to consume them soon, we can store them whole at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and other fruits that emit ethylene, such as bananas or apples.

Cut or grated tomatoes can be kept in a container with a lid or in a plastic bag that can be closed. You must eliminate air and dry the tomatoes well before preserving them.

You can also freeze them, raw or cooked. To do this, you must wash them, dry them and remove the stem. Then put them whole or chopped in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 12 months.

Can tomatoes be frozen with their skins on?

Tomatoes can be frozen with their skins on provided they are carefully washed before consumption. When defrosting, the skin will come off easily if they’re immersed in hot water for a few seconds.

Doesn’t that sound easy?

Following these tips, we can keep peppers, onions, and tomatoes longer in the refrigerator. This way, we will make the most of their nutritious and delicious components.

There are simple ways to preserve food for longer. Remember to check them regularly and consume them before they deteriorate. Enjoy!