Learn effective methods to store bell peppers and prolong their shelf life, ensuring they remain fresh and flavorful for your meals.
Choose firm, glossy, and brightly colored bell peppers without soft spots or wrinkles. Freshness at purchase is key to longevity.
Place unwashed whole peppers in a reusable cloth bag or keep them loose in your refrigerator's crisper drawer. This method helps maintain their firmness for up to two weeks.
If you've used half a pepper, leave the seeds and stem intact on the unused portion. Store it in the fridge's crisper drawer, either loose or in a reusable bag, to keep it fresh for about a week.
For sliced or chopped peppers, place them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. This setup can keep them fresh for up to 7 days.
To store peppers for an extended period, slice or dice them, then freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags. Frozen peppers are best used in cooked dishes and can last several months.
Refrain from washing peppers before storage, as moisture can promote mold growth. Always ensure peppers are dry before placing them in the fridge or freezer.
By selecting fresh peppers and storing them appropriately—whole, halved, or sliced—you can enjoy their crispness and flavor for longer periods.