How to Wash and Store Leafy Greens
To keep greens crisp, wash them immediately after purchase, dry them completely, and store them in a container lined with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of shelf life; if the leaves remain wet, they turn to slime within days.
The battle against wilting
Greens are fragile, and surface water trapped in storage bags accelerates decay. Treat your greens like cut flowers; keep them cool, dry, and breathing.
- Large mixing bowl
- Salad spinner
- Air-tight storage container
- Paper towels
Remove every drop of moisture
Excess water on the surface of leaves leads to rapid spoilage. Spin the greens thoroughly until no more water collects at the bottom of the basket.
The method.
Submerge the greens
Fill a large bowl with cold, clean water. Immerse the leaves and gently swish them around to loosen any grit or soil hiding in the stems.
Lift and inspect
Lift the greens out of the bowl with your hands rather than pouring the water out, as the dirt stays at the bottom. Repeat the rinse if you see sediment.
Dry completely
Place the greens in a salad spinner and work in batches if necessary. Spin until the leaves feel dry to the touch.
Pack for storage
Line your storage container with one or two dry paper towels. Place the greens inside, and top with another paper towel to absorb condensation before sealing the lid.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Discard any individual yellowing or slimy leaves before washing to prevent them from rotting the healthy ones.
If you lack a spinner, lay the greens out on a clean kitchen towel and roll them up loosely, then pat dry.
Store the container in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, where the temperature remains most consistent.
The ones that keep coming up.
Should I wash greens right before eating instead?
Washing immediately upon bringing them home removes field dirt and bacteria that expedite rot. Just ensure they are bone-dry before putting them away.
How long will they last?
When handled this way, hearty greens like kale or chard can last over a week, while delicate lettuces usually hold for five to seven days.