Nothing beats ripe summer tomatoes on a juicy burger or in a fresh salad, but many people don’t know the best way to store them. While it seems intuitive to pop tomatoes in the fridge after bringing them home from the store, cooking expert Madeline Buiano from Martha Stewart’s website reveals this is actually a big no-no. Storing tomatoes in the fridge can negatively impact their flavor and even damage them.
Buiano explains that tomatoes contain an enzyme that reacts to cold temperatures, causing the cell membranes to break down and resulting in mushy, mealy fruit. So, what’s the best way to store tomatoes?
For unripe tomatoes, a dry area in the kitchen with good air circulation is ideal. This prevents mold and keeps them away from direct sunlight, which can cause them to ripen too quickly. However, once a tomato reaches peak ripeness, it’s best enjoyed immediately.
Storing tomatoes on a flat surface, like a plate, is recommended as containers can cause bruising and damage, leading to quicker spoilage. Storing them stem-side down prevents moisture and bacteria from entering the stem scar, keeping them fresh and mold-free.
While it might seem counterintuitive, ripe tomatoes can be stored in the fridge if you’re not planning to use them within a few days. Cold temperatures halt the ripening process, so storing unripe tomatoes in the fridge will prevent them from fully developing, affecting their flavor. However, ripe tomatoes have already completed their ripening process, making them less susceptible to flavor and texture changes when stored in the fridge.
If your tomatoes are on the verge of overripening, the fridge can help slow down the process and save them. Remember to take ripe tomatoes out of the fridge and leave them at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking to restore their flavor. Cut tomatoes should always be stored in the fridge to prevent them from drying out.
Storing fresh tomatoes on the kitchen counter and then transferring them to the fridge can help keep them juicy and flavorful for an extended period – up to five to seven days longer! This simple trick helps preserve their freshness while maximizing their deliciousness.
