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Life Tips 09/07/2025 00:20

Don't just toss tomatoes into the fridge after buying them: Do this, and they'll last all year.

Many people have the habit of putting tomatoes straight into the refrigerator when they buy them, but this inadvertently causes the tomatoes to spoil quickly, losing their flavor and nutrients. Instead of doing so, just apply the small tip below, and you
Tomatoes are a staple in almost every kitchen. Rich in vitamins and flavor, they’re an essential ingredient in countless recipes. However, not everyone knows the right way to store them to keep them fresh and tasty for as long as possible.
Why You Shouldn't Refrigerate Tomatoes Right Away
Most refrigerators are set below 10°C (50°F), but tomatoes thrive at room temperature. Placing them in the fridge too soon can cause:

  • A significant loss of natural sweetness and flavor.

  • Wrinkled, mushy skins due to cold damage.

  • Excess moisture and mold growth when transferred back to room temperature.

Smart Ways to Keep Tomatoes Fresh for Up to a Year
1. For Tomatoes You’ll Eat Soon: Store Stem-Side Down
If you're planning to consume ripe tomatoes within a few days, store them upside down, with the stem end touching the surface. This method prevents moisture and bacteria from entering through the stem area — the most vulnerable part of the tomato.
Place them on a tray or in a breathable container lined with paper towels. Keep the tomatoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Stored this way, they’ll stay fresh for about a week.
2. For Longer Storage: Make Sauce or Freeze Them
Got a surplus of ripe tomatoes? Don’t let them go to waste — cook or freeze them for long-term use.
How to make tomato sauce that lasts up to a year:

  • Wash and remove stems. Blanch tomatoes in hot water, then peel.

  • Blend or finely chop them. Simmer with a pinch of salt and a bit of cooking oil until thick.

  • Let the sauce cool, then transfer to sterilized glass jars.

  • Keep in the refrigerator for 2–3 months or freeze in portions to store for up to a year.

  • When needed, just thaw and use for pasta, stews, or soups.

To freeze whole tomatoes:

  • Wash and pat dry thoroughly.

  • Wrap each tomato individually in plastic wrap or seal in a ziplock bag.

  • Store them in the freezer.

  • When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw and use as needed — ideal for soups, stews, and braised dishes.

3. Make Sun-Dried Tomatoes – No Fridge Needed
A traditional, no-refrigeration method to preserve tomatoes long-term is to dry them:

  • Slice tomatoes into thin rounds.

  • Dry them under the sun for 2–3 days or use a low-heat oven to dehydrate them.

  • Once fully dried, store them in a dry glass jar. For added flavor, pack them with olive oil and a bit of garlic.

These are perfect for pasta, pizza toppings, or homemade sauces and can be stored at room temperature.
Pro Tips That Make a Big Difference

  • Don’t wash tomatoes before storing. Excess moisture can cause early spoilage. Rinse only before use.

  • Avoid storing tomatoes near bananas or apples. These fruits emit ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening and leads to faster spoilage.

Tomatoes are quite simple to store when you understand their needs. Rather than tossing them in the fridge right after purchase, choose a method that suits how and when you’ll use them. Whether eaten fresh, frozen, or preserved as a sauce or dried slices, tomatoes can remain delicious and ready to use for months — even up to a year — with the right care. Keep your kitchen well-stocked with tomatoes, and you’ll always have the foundation for a tasty, healthy meal at your fingertips.

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