Cooktop Cove: 6 genius tricks to store avocados and keep them fresh for weeks longer
By Holly Owens
Avocados are a beloved fruit packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and nutrients, making them a staple in many households. However, they also have a short window of ripeness, which can be frustrating and wasteful. Learning how to store avocados properly can save you time, money, and the heartbreak of throwing away an underripe or overripe avocado.
There are multiple techniques to extend the freshness of avocados, and each has its own merits depending on the ripeness of the fruit and your specific needs. Reading through this article will equip you with several simple yet effective methods to make the most out of your avocados. Stay tuned and you'll discover six genius tricks that will help you keep your avocados fresh for weeks longer.
1. Refrigerate Ripe Avocados
If your avocados are already ripe and you want to prolong their freshness, store them in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will significantly slow down the ripening process, allowing you to keep them fresh for up to a week longer.
2. Store with Onion
Place the avocado in an airtight container along with a cut onion. The sulfur compounds in the onion help to reduce the oxidation process, keeping the avocado fresh and green for a longer period.
3. Use Lemon or Lime Juice
Brush or sprinkle lemon or lime juice on the exposed flesh of a cut avocado. The citric acid acts as a natural preservative, slowing down the browning process. Store the avocado in an airtight container in the fridge.
4. Submerge in Water
Place your uncut, ripe avocado in a bowl of water and store it in the refrigerator. Water acts as a barrier to oxygen, helping to prevent the avocado from overripening too quickly. This method can keep your avocado fresh for up to a week.
5. Store with Olive Oil
Brush the exposed part of a cut avocado with olive oil. The oil acts as a protective layer, minimizing exposure to air and thus delaying browning. Store the treated avocado in an airtight container in the fridge.
6. Freeze for Long-Term Storage
If you want to store avocados for an extended period, consider freezing them. You can either freeze them whole or as a puree. For whole avocados, wash them, dry them, and place them in a freezer bag. For puree, mash the avocado with a bit of lemon juice before storing it in an airtight container.
By following these handy techniques, you'll be able to enjoy fresh avocados for much longer. Each method has its advantages, so feel free to mix and match them according to your specific needs and the ripeness of your avocados. So go ahead, stock up on this nutritious fruit without worrying about them spoiling too soon.
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