Radishes are getting more popular these days, but if you are someone just getting introduced to them, or maybe you have tried them on a salad at a restaurant and want to learn more, this is for you! This post is all about how to select and store radishes in order to be able to enjoy them to their fullest.
(This post is an excerpt from The Produce Nerd’s Grocery Guide, with input provided by Lakeside Organic Gardens. You can learn more about the Grocery Guide, which covers this information for 55 different produce items, with input from 26 crop-specific companies HERE.)
What to look for when picking the best quality radish?
- You will want to pick a radish that is smooth, firm, and has fresh tops (if the tops are included).
- It the tops are fresh, it’s a good indicator that they are fresh.
- It is okay if they have an occasional crack, just be sure the cracked area isn’t showing age or any signs of pathogen growth.
Are there any common issues that are specifically caused by bad grocery store handling?
- A common problem is grocery stores don’t move product fast enough. Produce with leaves can yellow, dry up or in wet veg, start to get soggy and mildew. We harvest, pack, cool and ship within a couple days to ensure fresh organic produce.
- Temperature control, too cold or not enough or too much moisture are common store handling problems.
How to avoid radishes getting soggy?
- Buy them fresh and eat them quickly!
- Make sure to check at your local grocer for fresh looking radishes, and if the leaves are included, their freshness (green-colored, not wilting) is a good indicator of how fresh the radishes are and how well they have been maintained.
What is the best way to store radishes at home?
- There are two ways, depending on whether the tops are removed, but both options should have the radishes stored in the refrigerator.
- For radishes with tops, keep them wrapped in a moist paper towel in the refrigerator and use them within a day or two.
- If you are going to remove the tops, seal them in a plastic Ziploc with a moist paper towel at the bottom of the bag, and store them in the refrigerator.
What is the best way to store cut radishes?
- You should store cut radishes (and all cut produce) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. (These are my go-tos for fruit and vegetable storage in the refrigerator.)
What is your favorite way to eat and prepare radish?
- Roasted or pickled.
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