Whether you’re stuck at home, have a long trip to the grocery store, or just like to be prepared, you know that fresh produce never lasts as long as you want it to. When pulling something out of the garden isn’t an option, it’s worth having a stockpile of fruit and vegetables to keep between those trips out.
These six produce staples are worth picking up next time you visit the store:
Apples
They say “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” and we hope that’s true! This hearty fruit is a great one to stock up on since it keeps in the fridge for up to 6 weeks (and sometimes longer!). Plus, if you make some homemade applesauce, you can substitute that in place of other ingredients in some baked goods. In most recipes, a quarter cup of unsweetened applesauce can be used instead of one egg!
Beets
Many health claims have been attached to beets over the years, but one thing is sure: they are delicious. Fresh beets last about two weeks in the fridge after you trim the greens. Roast or boil with the skin on, then peel once cooled. They make a great salad with some honey and nuts stuck in the back of your pantry.
Cabbage
Fresh cabbage head on the farm in Phu Thap Boek, Phetchabun, Thailand.
Photo by Axl4Real via Adobe Stock
Don’t underestimate this leafy green. High in Vitamin C, cabbage can last up to two months if stored correctly in the fridge. Its versatile uses include using leaves as wraps for an assortment of fillings, shredded and sauteed with butter or bacon, or as a side of coleslaw. Don’t overcook it; that’s how you end up with its infamous strong scent!
Carrots
Raw, unpeeled carrots, stored in the fridge, have a shelf life of about 4-5 weeks. If you pull them out and find that white dotted pattern on the cut side, don’t panic! Your carrot hasn’t gone bad yet, but it is dehydrated. You can still use them as usual or blanch and freeze them to keep even longer.
“Living” Lettuce
Lettuce seems like an odd choice to grab for a long-haul stock up, but anyone who knows a thing or two about plants can tell you: The secret to longevity is in the roots. A head of living lettuce can stay fresh for about 18 days as long as the leaves remain moist and attached to the roots. If you have a spare bit of soil, you can even replant the lettuce as long as you leave the roots and core leaves intact.
Potatoes
When it comes to storing long-term, potatoes are a no-brainer. The secret to their longevity comes down to the storage methods. Keep your spuds in a cool, dark location—cooler than room temperature but warmer than the fridge. Please don’t keep them near the onions, or both will spoil quicker due to their moisture content. Store your potatoes in a basket or loose bag, and they can keep for 2-3 months.
