Bell peppers always look like they’re not real. They are usually so perfect and bright and colorful —but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to wash them.
“Bell peppers might look shiny and clean, but their surfaces can collect unwanted dirt or bacteria,” says Melanie Marcus MA RD, a professionally trained chef and registered dietitian.
Washing them helps get rid of residue. Fortunately, it doesn’t take much to clean them.
The Best Way to Wash Bell Peppers
“Rinse bell peppers quickly under cool, running water and gently rub the surface with your hands,” Marcus suggests. Make sure to pay attention to all the nooks and crannies where dirt can hide. If your peppers are particularly dirty or you just want to make sure they are very clean, you can use a soft vegetable brush to scrub away residue.
“If you want a more thorough clean, a baking soda mixture (1 teaspoon per 2 cups of water) is effective,” says Gabriela Swamy, PhD, professor at San Jose State University and member of the Institute of Food Technologists’ Fruit & Vegetable Products Division. “Soak peppers for a few minutes and rinse thoroughly.”
Marcus cautions that peppers can absorb water, so using a baking soda soak might affect their flavor and texture.
Whatever you choose, be sure to skip the produce wash, soap, and detergents, says the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Those products haven’t been tested for safety and could make you sick if you end up swallowing them.
Don’t Wash Peppers Right Away
Wait to clean your peppers until you’re ready to use them. “Washing them before storage can introduce moisture, leading to faster spoilage,” says Swamy. “If you do wash peppers early, it’s essential to dry them thoroughly with a paper towel or clean cloth before storage to prevent mold growth.”
Store unwashed peppers in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator in a breathable produce bag or container, Swamy suggests. Stored this way, they should last last 1 to 2 weeks.
“They can be stored on the counter,” says Marcus, “But the refrigerator keeps them firm and glossy for longer!”
When Bell Peppers Go Bad
If they haven’t been stored or washed properly—or if they’ve just been in the fridge for way too long—peppers can quickly become too yucky to eat. “If your peppers are slimy, have big soft spots, or show signs of mold, it’s time to throw them in the composter,” says Marcus.
If you have too many peppers to eat in a week or so, head for the freezer. “Slice into matchsticks and freeze in a single layer before putting in a freezer-safe plastic bag,” Marcus suggests. “They’ll be perfect for future use in a stir fry or stew.”
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