There’s nothing worse than buying delicious, sweet strawberries one day only to have them go mouldy the next. The bad news is your strawberries likely went mushy because of how you stored them. But with a few simple tweaks, you will know how to store strawberries so they last longer in the fridge or freezer, whether they’re store bought or you’ve grown them yourself.
Ways to store strawberries
If you’re going to eat your strawberries straight away, store them on the bench in the container you bought them in. Putting strawberries in the fridge causes them to lose flavour.
How to store strawberries in the fridge
Sonia Gabauer, Marketing Manager at berry brand Driscoll’s, says there are some really simple things you can do to store your strawberries so they last longer.
If stored correctly, Sonia says strawberries should stay fresh for up to five days in the fridge.
Although snacking on strawberries straight from the punnet is an Aussie rite of passage, Sonia says it’s best to let them return to room temperature before eating.
“To enhance the flavour experience, let strawberries reach room temperature before gently rinsing them with cool water and eating them.”
Here are two essential tips for storing strawberries.
1. Don’t pre-wash your strawberries
Washing your strawberries before storing them is a big no-no. “Strawberries should be kept dry and whole in a sealed container or punnet. Strawberries that are washed and stored are susceptible to going soft and mouldy,” says Sonia.
2. Avoid cutting your strawberries before storing them
Similar to washing strawberries, pre-cutting them will also cause them to spoil. Sonia says, “Cut strawberries deteriorate quickly, so keep them whole with the calyx (green leafy top) intact.”
How to store strawberries in the freezer
The freezer is your best option if you’ve stocked up on strawberries and want to store them for longer than five days.
- Arrange them in a single layer on an oven tray lined with baking paper.
- Pop them in the freezer.
- Once they are frozen, put them in a zip-lock bag.
Frozen berries are perfect for smoothies or can be used in cakes and muffins.
How to grow strawberries at home
If you prefer to grow your strawberries at home, it is easier than you think. Here is everything you need to plant, grow and care for strawberries.
Strawberry recipes to make at home
If you’re looking for strawberry recipes to make at home, we’ve got you covered. From cheesecakes to tart and muffins, here are 16 of our most delicious strawberry recipes. Plus, get the recipe for a delicious strawberry, date and mixed nut tart (pictured above).
The best containers for storing strawberries
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