Greens are an essential ingredient in cooking, adding flavor and nutrition to dishes.
However, many people find that after just a couple of days, parsley, dill or cilantro turns into a limp mass that has to be thrown away.
It turns out that the problem lies in improper storage. Most people simply put their greens in a bag and put them in the refrigerator, but this approach is detrimental to freshness.
There is a simple way to keep greens juicy and aromatic for two weeks or even longer. To do this, you will need water, a glass and a plastic bag. Let's figure out how it works.
The secret to long-term storage of greens is to imitate natural conditions. In nature, greens receive moisture through their roots, so if you put them in water, they will stay fresh.
Rinse the bunch of greens under running water to remove dirt and dust. Then shake off excess moisture and place the greens in a glass of water, like a bouquet of flowers.
Cover the greens with a plastic bag, securing it with a rubber band around the glass, and put it in the refrigerator. The water will nourish the stems, and the bag will create a microclimate that protects against temperature and humidity changes.
Why is this method so effective? Water prevents stems from drying out, and the bag slows down moisture evaporation and protects the greens from foreign odors. This method is ideal for parsley, dill, basil, and cilantro.
For leafy greens like spinach or arugula, you can use a slightly damp paper towel. Wrap the greens in the towel, place them in a container, and refrigerate them. This will keep them fresh for up to 10 days.
But what to do if the greens have already started to wilt? Put them in a bowl of ice water for 15-20 minutes. The cold water will restore the elasticity of the leaves, and they will be suitable for use again. However, remember: such greens should be consumed within the next 1-2 days.
Now that you know this life hack, your greens will always stay fresh.
Try this method and you will see that it really works. And to extend the shelf life even more, change the water in the glass every 2-3 days and trim the ends of the stems with scissors.
