Not all varieties of vegetables should be stored in the fridge. So, which can, and which can't?

It’s a common belief that you should keep all vegetables in the fridge. Why else is that bottom drawer called a vegetable drawer? Vegetables keep best at the bottom of the fridge, but not all vegetables should be kept in a cold environment. Some spoil faster than if kept out of the fridge, which is a shame and a waste. Time to sort fact from fiction.

Yes/No

- Many people keep cucumber in the fridge, but cucumber can dry out in the fridge. So, it’s better to store your cucumber elsewhere. Do you prefer a chilled slice of cucumber? Then pop it in the fridge for a bit before serving.

- Tomatoes don’t like the cold. The texture of the flesh changes and they become limp. The flavour also deteriorates. Storage at room temperature is better for our red friends.

- Like cucumbers and tomatoes, it is better not to store peppers and aubergines in the fridge, where they are more sensitive to spoilage. They will last longer outside the fridge.

- What you can safely store in the vegetable drawer are lettuce, endive, cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, beets, Brussel sprouts, zucchini, leeks, beans, and pre-cut vegetables.

Out of the fridge

By the way, did you know that it is better to wash vegetables just before you prepare or eat them? Washing leaves them moist, which can lead to faster spoilage. Vegetables must be able to breathe. They can be kept in a bag but leave it open. If possible, keep them in the original packaging in which you bought them. Oh, and only wrap cut vegetables in cling film and, preferably, only the cut surface.

Vegetable bowl

Store the vegetables that do not fare will in the fridge in a bowl. Place it in a cool spot away from direct sunlight. Just as you would do with a fruit bowl. Looks great on your kitchen counter or table.