How to Clean and Store Fresh Leafy Greens
Submerge your greens in a large bowl of cold water, swish them vigorously to release grit, then lift them out, leaving the sediment behind. Dry the leaves thoroughly using a salad spinner or by patting them between lint-free towels before wrapping them loosely in paper towels to maintain crispness in the refrigerator.
Water is the enemy of shelf life
Moisture causes leaves to turn into slime. If you do not dry them completely, they will wilt within a day regardless of how well you store them.
- Large mixing bowl
- Salad spinner
- Lint-free kitchen towels
- Airtight container or zip-top bag
What goes in.
- 1 bunchLeafy greens (kale, chard, spinach, or lettuce)
- As neededCold tap water
Dunk and Lift
Never run greens under a faucet stream, which bruises delicate leaves. Dunk them in a full bowl of water and lift them out by hand to let the dirt sink to the bottom of the bowl.
The method.
Trim the base
Cut away any woody stems or browned ends before you begin cleaning.
Submerge
Fill your bowl with cold water and add the greens. Swirl them in a circular motion with your hands for 30 seconds.
Inspect
Lift the greens out and check the water; if it looks murky with grit, dump it and repeat until the water remains clear.
Spin dry
Transfer the greens to a salad spinner. Spin until you no longer see water droplets flying against the sides of the bowl.
Pack
Line an airtight container with a folded paper towel. Place the greens inside, top with another paper towel to absorb excess humidity, and seal.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Store sturdier greens like kale in a plastic bag with a few air holes, but keep delicate lettuces in a rigid container to prevent bruising.
If your greens are slightly wilted, a 10-minute soak in ice water will often bring them back to life.
Change the paper towels in your storage container every few days if you notice them becoming damp.
The ones that keep coming up.
Should I wash my greens when I get home or right before eating?
Wash them immediately. Dirt and bacteria speed up spoilage, so cleaning them right away actually extends their life in your fridge.
What if I don't have a salad spinner?
Spread the greens in a single layer on a clean kitchen towel, roll the towel up tight, and gently press to absorb moisture, then unroll and let them air dry for ten minutes.
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