Helpful Tips
Washing & Storing Lettuce
I get a lot of questions about the proper way to clean and store lettuce so it lasts longer in the refrigerator. Here are some simple steps I do to get the most out of my lettuce. Lettuce begin (haha)…
Washing
You will need a salad spinner which can be purchased online or at most general merchandise store like Target or Walmart. Salad spinners have three parts: Bowl, basket, and top lid.
Break apart your lettuce and place in the salad spinner.
Fill spinner with cold water until lettuce is covered and let soak for a few minutes.
Swirl leaves gently in the water with your hand to loosen any dirt.
Remove basket from spinner and dump out the water from the bowl.
Replace basket and spin lettuce to drain excess water on leaves.
Remove lid and check lettuce to make sure all of the water has been spun off. If it still appears wet, spin again.
Lettuce is now clean and dry!
Storing
You will need to purchase a lettuce crisper container. Again, these can be purchased online or at any general merchandise store. A crisper typically has and basket inside the outer container (similar to the spinner) or vents to allow air circulation which helps prolong the shelf life of the lettuce.
Remove cleaned lettuce and store in the crisper to help keep leaves fresh and crisp (holds approximately one head of lettuce).
Make sure the lid is tight .
Ideally place the container in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. Keep away from the back of the refrigerator to prevent freezing.
Done! Easy to grab fresh lettuce for any meal.
More tips
Check your lettuce every day or two and remove and leaves that appear to be going bad. This will keep the rest of the leaves from spoiling.
For heads of lettuce: leave the heads intact and unwashed until you're ready to use them. Store them in the crisper drawer in your fridge with some paper towels. They'll absorb any excess moisture, so your lettuce doesn't spoil prematurely. Swap out the paper towels as they become soggy.
You can bring wilted lettuce back to life by soaking in an ice bath for a few minutes. Dry in the salad spinner and serve immediately.
Lettuce bruises easily so be gentle!
Consider greens that are heartier and last longer such as romaine, iceberg, kale, or arugula.
For extra protection you can wrap your lettuce in a paper towel to absorb any extra water. Make sure to check and replace the paper towel as it becomes wet.