6. Tomatoes
It is generally not recommended to put tomatoes in the fridge unless they are fully ripe and need to be stored for a longer period. Tomatoes are sensitive to cold temperatures, and refrigeration can affect their flavor and texture. Cold temperatures can cause the flesh of tomatoes to become mealy and less flavorful. Additionally, refrigeration can slow down the ripening process, so if you have unripe tomatoes, keeping them in the fridge can hinder their ability to reach optimal ripeness.
For best results, store fully ripe tomatoes at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Find a cool and dry spot in your kitchen or pantry. It is important to use ripe tomatoes within a few days to enjoy them at their peak flavor and texture.
However, if your tomatoes are fully ripe and you want to extend their shelf life by a day or two, refrigeration can be an option. Place the ripe tomatoes in the fridge to slow down further ripening. Keep them in a container or a loosely sealed plastic bag to prevent moisture loss and minimize contact with other foods in the fridge.
Before consuming refrigerated tomatoes, allow them to come to room temperature for better flavor. Note that the texture might still be slightly affected, but the taste should remain relatively intact.
If you have cut or sliced tomatoes that you wish to store, it is recommended to refrigerate them in an airtight container. However, it’s best to use them within a day or two to maintain their freshness and flavor.