Grapes are not only a delicious and refreshing snack but also a nutritional powerhouse. These fruits are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that may help prevent chronic diseases.
However, with the average price of grapes reaching $2.24 per pound in the US,1 it’s more important than ever to make them last.
1. Choose the Right Grapes
When selecting grapes at the store, look for bunches that are firmly attached to the stems and free of wrinkles. Avoid grapes with major discoloration or bruises, as these are signs of damage and expiration.
Normal Shelf Life: Grapes typically last 3-5 days on the counter and 5-10 days in the refrigerator.
2. Give Them a Vinegar Bath
To wash your grapes, cut the bunches into smaller clusters while leaving them on the stem. Place the clusters in a large bowl filled with cool water and add ¼ cup of 5% distilled white vinegar. Let the grapes soak for two minutes, then drain using a colander and rinse well.
Washing grapes in a water-vinegar solution keeps them pristine for longer. The vinegar helps kill any bacteria or mold spores on the surface of the grapes, which can cause them to spoil quickly.
3. Dry Thoroughly
Lay the grape clusters in a single layer on a clean towel at room temperature and allow them to dry completely for a few hours. This step is crucial, as any remaining moisture can lead to mold growth.
Pro Tip: Ensure the grapes are bone dry before storing them.
4. Store Them in the Fridge
Grapes are best kept in the refrigerator, specifically in the crisper drawer where humidity levels are higher. Place them in a well-ventilated container, such as a perforated plastic bag or a bowl covered with a damp paper towel .
5. Separate Grapes into Smaller Clusters
If you have a large bunch of grapes, consider breaking it up into smaller clusters before storing. This allows for better air circulation and prevents premature spoilage caused by grapes pressing against each other.
5. The Freeze Frame: Extending Grape Life Beyond a Month
For truly long-term storage:
- Wash and dry grapes thoroughly
- Spread on a baking sheet and freeze individually
- Transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags
- Enjoy frozen grapes as a refreshing snack or in smoothies
Frozen grapes can be stored for up to 3 months.
Creative Ways to Use Frozen Grapes
Don’t let your frozen grapes go to waste! Here are some inventive ways to enjoy them:
- Natural Ice Cubes: Use frozen grapes to chill white wine or sangria without diluting
- Instant Slushy: Blend frozen grapes for a healthy, no-sugar-added slushy treat
- Yogurt Toppers: Add frozen grapes to your morning yogurt for a crunchy twist
- Grape “Popsicles”: Serve frozen grapes on skewers for a fun, kid-friendly snack
- Smoothie Boosters: Toss a handful into your smoothie for added nutrition and thickness
Frozen grapes contain about 2 calories each and are packed with antioxidants, making them a guilt-free snack option.
Just by following these simple steps, you can enjoy fresh, crisp grapes for weeks to come. Not only will you save money by reducing waste, but you’ll also have a delicious and healthy snack readily available.
Source:
1. Statista
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.