Summer is one of the most exciting seasons for cooking: markets are bursting with ripe fruits, vibrant vegetables, and delicious cheeses. But with high temperatures and humidity, keeping your fresh ingredients from spoiling too quickly can be a real challenge!
Here are my favorite simple tips to help you make your produce and cheeses last longer—saving both money and food waste.
Fresh Fruits & Vegetables
1. Don’t wash them right away — It might be tempting to wash everything as soon as you get home, but resist the urge! Moisture speeds up spoilage. Store fruits and veggies unwashed, and rinse only before eating or cooking.
2. Keep herbs happy — Fresh herbs wilt quickly in the heat. To keep them fresh longer, wrap them in a slightly damp paper towel and place them in a resealable bag or glass jar in the fridge. Basil is the only exception—it prefers to stay at room temperature in a glass of water, like fresh flowers.
3. Wrap summer veggies individually — Zucchini, eggplants, and bell peppers do best when stored in the fridge drawer, each one wrapped in paper (kitchen paper or newspaper works) to prevent moisture buildup and bruising. Keep them dry, cool, and out of direct airflow.
Cheeses
1. Skip the plastic wrap — Avoid using plastic film, which traps moisture and can lead to mold. Instead, wrap cheese in parchment paper or wax paper—it allows the cheese to breathe while still protecting it.
2. Store soft cheeses in airtight containers — Creamy cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta should be stored in clean, sealed containers. If they come in liquid (like brine or whey), keep them immersed. Also, keep them away from strong-smelling foods to preserve their delicate flavor.
3. Avoid the coldest fridge zones — If your fridge is very cold or humid, don’t store cheese at the very back or in the bottom drawer, where temperatures fluctuate. Choose a middle shelf or a designated cheese drawer, if available.
Bonus Summer Storage Tips
- Use clear, stackable containers
If your fridge is small, transparent containers help you save space and spot everything at a glance. No more forgotten zucchini in the back corner! - Label everything
Want to go full pro? Label your containers with the date you stored your items. It’s a simple habit that helps you stay organized and reduce waste.
Try These Tricks and Let Me Know!
These tips have helped me reduce waste and enjoy summer ingredients longer, even on the hottest days. Give them a try and see if you notice the difference in your kitchen! Got your own summer storage hacks? Share them in the comments—I’d love to hear them!
