Should you dry leafy greens after washing before storing?

Question

Yes, you must dry leafy greens after washing! Learn why removing excess moisture is the most important step to prevent slime and spoilage.

Answer 1

Yes, you should dry leafy greens thoroughly after washing and before storing them. This helps prevent them from becoming soggy and extends their shelf life.

Detailed Explanation:

When you wash leafy greens, they naturally retain a significant amount of water. This excess moisture creates a humid environment within your storage container or bag, which encourages the growth of bacteria and mold. These microorganisms cause the greens to wilt, decay, and become slimy much faster. Drying the greens removes this excess moisture, slowing down the decomposition process and keeping your greens fresher for longer. You can dry leafy greens using several methods:

1. Salad Spinner: This is the most efficient method. Place the washed greens in the spinner basket, close the lid, and spin until most of the water is removed. You may need to repeat this process a few times.

2. Paper Towels: Lay the washed greens on a clean, dry paper towel. Gently pat them dry with another paper towel. You can also roll the greens up in the paper towel and store them together.

3. Clean Kitchen Towel: Similar to paper towels, spread the washed greens on a clean kitchen towel and gently pat them dry. You can also roll them up in the towel for storage.

4. Air Drying: Spread the washed greens in a single layer on a clean surface and let them air dry. This method takes longer but is effective.

After drying, store the greens in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag lined with a paper towel to absorb any remaining moisture.

Pro Tip:

Don't over-dry your greens! A little bit of moisture is okay, but avoid leaving them soaking wet. Over-drying can cause them to wilt prematurely. Aim for greens that are mostly dry but still slightly hydrated.