How to Store Cucumbers So They Stay Super Fresh
Now you can keep your cucumbers crunchy and crisp for as long as possible.
Fact checked by Emily PetersonMedically reviewed by Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDNFact checked by Emily PetersonMedically reviewed by Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN
Knowing how to store cucumbers will help save you time (running back to the store) and money (buying more cucumbers). This versatile vegetable can be served as crudites, in a salad, or even put in cocktails. And they're available all year round, so proper storage will ensure that you always have some on hand.
But if you've noticed your cucumbers expire just days after bringing them home from the market, it could be due to how they're stored. We've rounded up some tips on how to choose the best cucumbers, how to store them fresh, and even how to freeze them.
How to Choose Fresh Cucumbers
Before storing cucumbers, it's critical to know how to choose the best ones—otherwise, you're bound to end up with spoiled veggies, no matter how diligent your efforts. When you're cruising through the market picking your cukes, keep these things in mind:
Color: Cucumbers should be a medium to dark green, with no yellow or white spots on them.
Firmness: Ripe cucumbers are firm but not hard, have no bruising, and should be smooth.
Texture: The perfect cucumber will be devoid of any white mold, blemishes, or any other obvious signs of rotting or being over-ripe.
Smell: Though the scent of raw cucumbers is pleasant, you should only be able to smell one if it's cut open. When choosing a cucumber at the market, look for one that's odorless.
Weight: If a cucumber feels heavy or puffy, that means it's full of water and past its prime.
Shelf Life
Many store-bought cucumbers have a waxy layer that allows them to have a longer shelf life of up to a week. English cucumbers come wrapped in plastic for preservation. If you're growing your own cukes or purchased English cucumbers, try to enjoy them within two to three days after picking them.
How to Store Cucumbers
Most people toss cucumbers into the crisper drawer of their refrigerator, which isn't the worst option, but there are some simple tricks that will keep them fresher for longer.
In Plastic Wrap
Wrap the whole cucumber in plastic wrap and then store it in an airtight container. The plastic wrap acts as a shield and locks in moisture, which prevents the cukes from ripening and becoming mushy. After trying this method, you'll be pleasantly surprised to see that your cucumbers are still crispy and crunchy up to a week later.
With the Spoon Method
If you frequently open and close your refrigerator, you might want to try the spoon method for storing. Simply put your cucumber in a plastic bag with a spoon, then stick it in the refrigerator. The theory is that the spoon helps keep the cucumber's temperature consistent, even if the fridge is being opened and closed.
Storing Sliced Cucumber
If you're pre-slicing cucumbers for a convenient snack throughout the week, do not put them in a plastic bag unless you plan on eating them within the same day. Instead, wrap them in a damp paper towel and store them in an airtight container for up to five days. Locking in the moisture is key to keeping the cucumber slices fresh for as long as possible.
Can You Freeze Cucumbers?
Because of their high water content, cucumbers can easily be stored in the freezer and enjoyed throughout the year. It's always a good idea to slice them beforehand, but it's up to you whether you'd like to peel them or not.
Once sliced, spread the cucumber rounds out onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for two to three hours. Then, store them in a freezer-friendly container in your freezer, making sure to leave a little room at the top in case they expand while frozen.
Keep in mind that freezing cucumbers will absolutely change their consistency. When thawed, they will no longer be crispy, so thawed cukes are best used in smoothies, drinks, and soups.
Related: 10 Super-Hydrating Drinks That Are Way More Interesting Than a Glass of Water
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