The refrigerator is a staple in most kitchens, providing a convenient way to store and preserve perishable items. However, there are many foods that don’t require refrigeration. Not only can this save precious fridge space and help keep your refrigerator organized , but it can also make meal planning simpler and help some perishables last longer. Read on to explore a list of common foods that don’t need to be refrigerated, and learn some helpful tips for food storage.
While the refrigerator is useful for keeping some fruits fresh, certain types of fruit don’t need to be chilled. Refrigeration may even cause some fruits to spoil more quickly or lose their flavor and texture. Check out the list below to learn which fruits are best stored at room temperature.
To keep your bananas fresh and prevent premature browning, proper storage is key. Some options include storing them on an open countertop, in a pantry or on a dedicated banana hook.
To preserve the freshness of melons, let them ripen at room temperature before refrigerating them once sliced.
For optimal freshness, store berries at room temperature rather than in the fridge. This can help avoid moisture build-up that could damage them. Avoid washing berries until you’re ready to eat them, too.
Apples can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks. Beyond this point, refrigeration can help preserve their quality for an extended period of time. If you do need to refrigerate your apples, consider keeping them in your refrigerator crisper drawer .
To achieve perfect ripeness, it’s best to let apricots, nectarines, peaches and plums sit at room temperature. If you can’t consume them immediately, you can keep them in the fruit bin of your refrigerator for a few extra days.
Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruits, get their juicy goodness in hot environments. Sometimes citrus fruits can be easier to zest when they are cold. If you prefer it chilled, simply roll the fruit on the countertop before zesting so you can still enjoy its juiciness.
Your tomatoes should be stored at room temperature to help keep them juicy and fresh.
When it comes to keeping vegetables fresh, refrigeration is often the go-to solution. Not all vegetables have the same storage needs, though. In fact, some vegetables fare much better outside the cold confines of your refrigerator. Read on to learn more about which vegetables don’t need refrigeration.
Keep cucumbers fresh by avoiding refrigeration, which can cause wateriness and pitted skin. Store them in an air-tight container on your countertop or in your pantry for optimal freshness.
To help prevent onions from becoming soft and developing mold, store them in a cool, dry place away from potatoes.
Store potatoes in a paper bag at room temperature to help maintain their texture and flavor. Refrigeration can cause grittiness and excessive sweetness due to moisture.
If you store your bell peppers in the refrigerator, they might lose their crunch. To help them maintain their crispy exterior, store them at room temperature.
Store your avocados on the counter or elsewhere at room temperature to help them ripen faster and be ready for use.
Pickles are already preserved, allowing you to save fridge space and keep them in the pantry. Check store-bought options for specific refrigeration instructions, though.
No need to refrigerate winter squash. Store squash such as butternut and acorn in a cool, dry place.
Knowing where to store ingredients, foods and condiments can help maintain their flavor and freshness. Aside from fruits and vegetables, there are other items that don’t need to be refrigerated.
To keep your bread fresh, avoid refrigeration. Instead, leave it out at room temperature if you anticipate finishing it in a day. Otherwise, store it in a bread box or paper sack. You can also freeze it and then toast it to thaw when you’re ready to eat.
Store coffee grounds and beans in a sealed container in the pantry, rather than in the fridge, to preserve their flavor.
Store honey at room temperature to maintain its smooth and gooey consistency, as refrigeration can cause it to become hard and lumpy.
For optimal flavor and spiciness, store hot sauce in your pantry, not the fridge. Check packaging instructions for any specific recommendations.
Keep your olive oil in a cool, dark area in your kitchen. If kept in the fridge, olive oil may harden. Generally, olive oil has a shelf life of 18 months from its harvest date.
Butter can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. Beyond a few days, it should be refrigerated or frozen.
When kept at room temperature peanut butter can stay creamy and spreadable for up to three months; just refrigerate after three months have passed.
To maintain their full flavor, store nuts like cashews, pecans and almonds in a sealed container at room temperature rather than in the refrigerator. This simple step helps ensure their flavor stays intact.
You can keep soy sauce in a cabinet for up to a year due to its fermentation process. Follow packaging instructions as some products may differ.
To preserve the taste and texture of chocolate, avoid refrigerating it. Store it in a cool, dry place instead.
Most baked goods can be stored in an airtight container on the counter or in the pantry. You don’t need to refrigerate items like freshly baked cookies, brownies or even some cakes and pies.
For canned fish, such as tuna, room temperature is best. Keep your canned tuna in a cool, dry place and on a shelf rather than on the floor.
Molasses can be stored, unopened, at room temperature for up to a year. Once it has been opened, you can continue storing it at room temperature for another six months.
You can skip the fridge when it comes to vinegar. Vinegar’s acidity makes it ideal for room-temperature storage.
Chocolate-hazelnut spread—with its combination of rich cocoa and smooth hazelnuts—becomes more spreadable and its distinctive chocolate flavor intensifies when left unchilled.
Store foods in airtight containers, when necessary
Read the labels to help ensure proper storage
Store foods in a cool, dry place
Make sure boxes and containers are closed tightly after each use
Check expiration dates at the store before purchasing and at home before eating
Keep your pantry or food storage area organized so you don’t lose track of items
Maytag ® refrigerators are designed to help keep your perishables in their ideal climate
When it comes to keeping your food fresh, a refrigerator from Maytag brand has the features you need. Select models feature a Wide-N-Fresh™ Deli Drawer to store party platters and deli trays and a Beverage Chiller Compartment so there is always a cold drink when you need one.
Explore Maytag ® kitchen appliances designed to power through mealtime and cleanup and look good while doing it
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