Celery is a tasty and nutritious vegetable that can be used in many recipes, from salads to soups to stir-fries. It’s also a popular snack food, whether paired with some peanut butter or hummus or eaten on its own. However, many people wonder how long celery lasts in the fridge, and whether they need to eat it quickly to avoid spoilage.
The good news is that celery is a relatively resilient vegetable that can last for several weeks in the fridge if stored properly. However, like all fresh produce, it will eventually start to degrade and lose its flavor and texture over time. So, how long exactly can you expect your celery to last in the fridge? Let’s take a closer look.
Firstly, it’s important to know that celery should always be stored in the fridge, either in the original packaging or in an airtight container or zip-top bag. This helps to prevent moisture loss and keeps the celery crisp and fresh for longer. If you don’t have an airtight container, you can wrap the celery tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to achieve a similar effect.
Assuming your celery is stored properly, it should last for around two to three weeks in the fridge. However, the exact shelf life will depend on several factors, such as the freshness of the celery when you bought it, how well it’s been stored, and the temperature and humidity of your fridge.
In general, the colder and drier your fridge is, the longer your celery will last. If your celery feels damp or slimy, it may be starting to spoil and should be discarded. Similarly, if the celery has started to brown or wilt, it’s likely past its prime and won’t taste great.
One way to extend the life of your celery is to trim the ends and place the stalks in a jar of water, like you would with fresh herbs. This can help to keep the celery crisp and hydrated, and may prolong its shelf life by a few extra days.
If you find yourself with more celery than you can use in a few weeks, you can also try freezing it. While frozen celery won’t be as crisp as fresh, it can still be used in cooked dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles. Simply chop the celery into small pieces, blanch briefly in boiling water, then transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to six months. Thaw the celery in the fridge overnight before using.
In summary, celery can last for around two to three weeks in the fridge if stored properly, but its exact shelf life will depend on various factors. To maximize the freshness and flavor of your celery, be sure to store it in an airtight container or zip-top bag, trim the ends and place the stalks in water if possible, and keep your fridge cold and dry. And if all else fails, don’t be afraid to freeze your excess celery for later use!