The very trait of organic berries we value is that there are no pesticides. Yet, that is the very reason you’re in such a race to use them. They’re highly perishable and meant to be consumed quickly.  What if you were tempted by that overflowing basket of June strawberries? Now, you’re overwhelmed with how fast they need to be consumed.

 What do you do if your CSA has a large box of strawberries coming your way? CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. If you’re not familiar with a CSA, you can read about and find one here:  http://www.localharvest.org/csa/

Slow down. However some fragrant berries have found their way to your kitchen — follow these simple steps. Here is a method for cleaning strawberries in a 3 to 1 solution. It will help extend the fresh cycle for your strawberries. 

We buy organic and we grow organic. We like knowing there are no pesticides. It’s how we know for sure what’s in the food on our dinner table. You want to enjoy the season’s berries without wondering, what, or how much, of something has been sprayed on your berries.

There are two items you might not think of together. White vinegar and berries. White vinegar can help you keep your berries fresh. The acidity in the vinegar gets to work  on the strawberries after being submerged in a solution of 3 parts water to 1 part vinegar.

Place strawberries in a bowl. Add the water and white vinegar. Let soak for 40-50 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon, or a spider, as seen here. (That’s what the tool is called. Not the bug. I don’t spray chemicals on them either. Usually.)

Remove the berries and rest on a paper towel. Give them a spin in the salad spinner lined with paper towels. Place in a container, with paper towels, and the lid open slightly. Store in the refrigerator. This method will help you stretch the amount of time you have fresh berries available.

Most advice for the kitchen says you shouldn’t wash berries and store in the refrigerator. That would encourage mold. The recommendation is to wait until you are ready to use them.

This pre-wash method works because the vinegar kills any bacteria that leads to mold. Summer fruit is such a pleasure to have around. Summer berries are a little pricey. So, do what you can to get the most out of your purchase.

Tune in tomorrow for delicious ideas for berries!