7 of the longest-lasting fresh produce. Tips on how to make your produce last longer and stay fresher. These tips will help you save money and time at the grocery store!
For the first time ever going to the grocery store is actually quite frightening.
Now more than ever it is important to buy the longest-lasting fresh produce possible.
It is also an important time to not let nutrition be lost.
We are lucky enough to have healthier shelf-stable foods available but nothing replaces fresh produce.
The nutrients and vitamins found in fruits and vegetables are critical at this time and shouldn’t be overlooked.
Here is a list of my favorite pieces of fresh produce with a shelf-life that exceeds others.
These are also extremely nutrient-dense foods providing our bodies with exactly what we need.
Cabbage
I believe you are either a lover or a hater.
Nutritionally cabbage is high in vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and is full of fiber.
All of which are important to help boost immunity and keep us feeling full.
Vitamin C is important in fighting free radicals and controlling infections which is something we all need right now.
Cabbage is one of the best shelf-stable forms of produce you can buy lasting upwards of 2 months!
Tips for making cabbage last longer include:
- Leaving the outer leaves on to protect the inside
- Do not wash until ready to use
- Store in the fridge in a hydrator drawer
Check out this awesome recipe for egg roll in a bowl using cabbage!
Carrots
One of Max’s (our dog) favorites!
Carrots are a root vegetable known for packing in nutrients.
One of the most prevalent is beta carotene. Beta carotene is how the body converts vitamin A.
Vitamin A is essential for good skin health, vision, and once again our immune system.
Carrots can last a few weeks in the fridge if stored properly.
Tips for making carrots last longer include:
- storing in an air tight container in the fridge with water
- replace the water once it starts to turn
Check this easy roasted carrot side dish recipe!
Potato
Potatoes are the perfect gluten free starch to add to any meal.
They are also a great long-lasting produce item.
Don’t let the starch in potatoes be intimidating because they have a lot to offer.
Potatoes have more potassium than bananas. Potassium is important for nerve function and muscle contraction.
Potatoes can last anywhere from 2 weeks to two months.
Tips for making potatoes last longer include:
- Store in a cool dark area
- Do not store them near onions
- Store in a loosely covered bag (brown paper is great) or basket to allow air circulation
This simply roasted potato recipe makes the perfect side dish!
Winter Squash
Seems silly to talk about winter produce in the month of April but they are some of the longest lasting.
Most commonly found types include pumpkin, butternut, spaghetti, delicata, kabocha, acorn, and more.
All forms of winter squash are extremely nutrient-dense.
Produce items like these are rich in vitamin A, C, E, and B6 as well as magnesium and potassium.
Un-cut winter squash can last anywhere from 1-3 months
Tips for making winter squash last longer include:
- Store in a cool dark place
This is the perfect recipe to take winter squash into the summer season!
Onions
Although onions aren’t high in essential nutrients they are one of the most widely used ingredients out there.
As for its ability to last a long time, it is high on the radar as well.
Onions are made up of mostly water and they are great for adding flavor without the extra calories.
Onions can be stored for up to 4 weeks
Tips for making onions last longer include:
- Store in a cool dark place
- Place in well ventilated locations
- Don’t store next to other vegetables because they can draw moisture causing them to decay
This is a great spin on a regular French onion soup recipe!
Apples
I may be partial to apples because I am a New Yorker but they are packed with nutrients too!
Apples are known for being full of fiber especially if you leave the skin on.
The best part is its versatility.
They can be used for so many things like breakfast, snacks, in salads, cooked or raw.
Any type of apple is great to bake with add to oatmeal or even slow cook into applesauce.
You may be surprised they pack a good antioxidant punch as well.
Apples can be stored for 4-6 weeks
Tips for making apples last longer include:
- keeping them in the fridge
- store them in their own drawer away from other produce
If your looking to lighten up a favorite apple dessert try this apple crisp recipe!
Citrus Fruits
There is a laundry list of produce items under the citrus fruits category.
Some of my favorites include lemons, limes, grapefruit, sweet oranges, and clementines.
Many of us know citrus fruits to be extremely healthy and high in antioxidants.
Fruits like these are high in vitamin C, folate, and potassium.
Fruits like lemon and lime are perfect for cooking as well as water enhancement while others make a great breakfast addition.
Some citrus fruits can keep in a crisper for up to 8 weeks
Tips for making citrus fruit last longer include:
- storing them in the fridge
With warmer weather coming this citrus-filled water recipe sounds so refreshing!
As difficult as it may be to eat healthy right now it is important.
There are many ways to make delicious healthy dishes from longer-lasting produce.
Let me know some of your favorite recipes in the comments below!
Looking for a good workout option during this time?
Check out my post on at home gym equipment:
The best, cheap at-home pieces of exercise equipment
How to stay motivated to workout
Your fitness questions answered
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