Let’s talk about storing your strawberries after harvest! Two standard methods of preserving strawberries after picking are storing fresh strawberries in the refrigerator and freezing whole berries.
Storing Whole, Fresh Strawberries in the Refrigerator
1. Don't pre-wash your strawberries. Wait to wash strawberries until just before eating. Washing adds moisture and causes the berries to spoil more rapidly.
2. Leave the stem on your strawberries. An intact stem will protect the berry’s interior and prolong its shelf life.
3. Add a dry, clean paper towel to the bottom of your container. The paper towel will absorb moisture and help keep the berries dry.
4. Store strawberries in a single layer. Strawberries are delicate and will stay fresher longer when not crushed by layers of berries.
Freezing Whole, Fresh Strawberries for Later Use
1. Wash, cap, and drain whole berries. Allow berries to fully dry.
2. Spread berries in a single layer on a baking sheet. A single layer helps to avoid the berries sticking together.
3. Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the berries are solid. It typically takes an hour or two for the berries to become solid.
4. Transfer strawberries into a freezer bag or an airlock container. When transferring berries, press out as much air as possible.
* Frozen strawberries can be used for up to a year.
* Tip for Best Taste: Consume berries slightly thawed with a few ice crystals remaining. The expansion of frozen water in the berry ruptures the cell walls, causing the berry to soften when thawed.
ENJOY!