Keeping Lettuce and Leafy Greens Fresh

Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale tend to wilt and become limp quickly. Here’s a tip to keep them fresh and crisp for longer in your refrigerator:

Ingredients

• Fresh leafy greens
• Clean paper towels or a clean kitchen towel
• A resealable plastic bag or airtight container

Instructions

1. Wash and Dry: Start by washing your leafy greens thoroughly under cold water. Gently shake off excess water, but don’t dry them completely. Some moisture is essential to maintain freshness.
2. Layer with Towels: Lay out a clean paper towel or a clean kitchen towel on your countertop. Place a single layer of the washed greens on top.
3. Fold and Store: Gently fold the towel over the greens to create a loose bundle. Place this bundle in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container.
4. Seal and Refrigerate: Seal the bag or container and store it in the vegetable crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
5. Check and Replace Towels: Check the greens every few days. If the paper towel or kitchen towel has become damp, replace it with a dry one. This will help absorb excess moisture, preventing the greens from wilting or developing mold.

This method can help extend the freshness of your leafy greens by several days. The towel absorbs moisture, and the sealed container or bag provides a controlled environment to prevent drying out or becoming too moist. It’s an easy and effective way to reduce food waste and enjoy crisp, fresh greens in your salads and dishes.