Don’t Wash Before Storing Avoid washing broccoli before storing it in the fridge. Moisture can cause it to spoil faster. Instead, wash it just before using it to prevent excess moisture buildup, which can lead to wilting or mold growth.
Keep It in the Crisper Drawer The crisper drawer in your fridge is the best place to store broccoli. This area maintains a slightly higher humidity level than the rest of the fridge, helping to preserve the vegetable's freshness without causing it to wilt.
Use a Ventilated Bag If you want to extend the shelf life of your broccoli, store it in a perforated plastic bag. This allows for air circulation while keeping humidity in check, which helps maintain the broccoli’s crispness.
Wrap in a Damp Paper Towel Another method to keep your broccoli fresh is wrapping the stems in a damp paper towel. This helps maintain moisture without over-saturating the broccoli, which could lead to mold. Place the wrapped broccoli in a bag or container for added protection.
Store Whole, Not Pre-Cut To keep broccoli fresh for longer, store it whole instead of cutting it into florets. Whole broccoli heads retain moisture and nutrients better. Cut it just before you're ready to cook to keep it at its best.
Don’t Store It with Fruit Broccoli should not be stored alongside fruits like apples or bananas, as they release ethylene gas, which can cause the broccoli to spoil faster. Keep it separate to maintain its freshness.
Keep It in the Original Packaging If you bought broccoli in a store package, it’s often best to keep it in the original packaging. These packages are designed to allow airflow while preserving the broccoli’s moisture balance, keeping it fresh for a longer period.