How to Store Ripe Tomatoes

Ripe tomatoes are a great source of beta carotine, folic acid and fiber

A fresh ripe tomato is one of nature's tastiest treats. High in vitamin C and antioxidants, nutritious-versatile tomatoes add flavor to salads, sandwiches, soups or pasta dishes. Ripe tomatoes also make a healthy snack sliced and served plain, or with a little added salt, pepper and drizzle of olive oil. Want to keep your ripe tomatoes fresh? It's easy to extend the life and flavor of your ripened tomatoes through proper selection and storage.

Instructions

1. Select the brightest colored tomatoes available at the store. Red varieties should not be too dull or pink, and yellow varieties should be a medium yellow shade, otherwise they may be overripe and mushy. Gently press tomatoes with your thumb to test for proper ripeness. Ripe tomatoes will yield slightly, but then the indentation will gradually disappear.

2. Pick homegrown tomatoes after 80 percent of their color has developed for optimum flavor. Choose blemish-free fruit without cracks, pests or signs of mold.

3. Wash and completely dry the tomatoes before storing.

4. Store ripe tomatoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Position fruit with the stem scar side up to reduce chances of premature darkening and softening. Ripe tomatoes will maintain their delicious flavor and texture for two to three days when stored at room temperature.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy enhanced-trait tomato varieties that offer an extended shelf life. Many types of cherry, cluster, Roma and large "vine-ripe" tomatoes can be stored at room temperature up to five days.

• If store-bought tomatoes are slightly under ripe, place fruit in a brown paper bag with an apple or banana for a day or two in a warm place to ripen. Keep the bag out of direct sunlight to prevent the fruit from rotting.

• While refrigeration can keep the flavor of tomatoes from developing, "just-ripe" tomatoes can be stored in the refrigerator up to three days, if needed. Keep store-bought tomatoes in a clam-shell plastic container or plastic bag with a slit or two, for air circulation, and place them in a crisper or vegetable bin. Removing tomatoes from the refrigerator at least an hour before serving to help restore their flavor.

• Avoid buying tomatoes that have been refrigerated or stored in cold temperatures for long periods of time. Cold storage typically prevents tomatoes from ripening thoroughly and can ruin their flavor.

• Always wash and thoroughly dry fresh tomatoes before storing and cutting to prevent possible transmission of food-borne illnesses.

References

• University of the District of Columbia: Tomatoes
• University of California: Tomatoes--Safe Methods to Store, Preserve and Enjoy

Resources

• Clemson Cooperative Extension: Using & Storing Tomatoes