What's the best way to store fresh Swiss chard?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Proper storage methods can preserve Swiss chard quality from a few days to even a few months. Start with unwashed leaves (in perforated plastic bags) stored at temperatures between 32°F and 36°F and 95% relative humidity. This is very similar to the conditions used by commercial vegetable storage. I even put paper towels in the bags to absorb extra moisture. Ideally, harvest in the morning when the plants are maximally hydrated for the best refrigerator storage duration.
Refrigeration Essentials
- Maintain 95% humidity using damp paper towels
- Store away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples
- Check bags every 3 days for condensation buildup
Crisper Drawer Setup
- Use perforated containers instead of bags
- Layer leaves with unprinted paper towels
- Adjust drawer humidity control to high setting
Countertop Options
- Submerge stems in 1 inch of cold water
- Cover leaves loosely with plastic bags
- Keep in cool dark spot below 60°F
For long-term storage, consider blanching before freezing for optimal quality. Boil the leaves in water for 2 minutes and shock them in ice water. Ensure the leaves are thoroughly drained before packing. I use vacuum-sealed portions to store in the freezer. This limits any freezer burn and holds the texture for 10-12 months. Date with the processing date and rotate the bags.
Dehydrating chard makes nutrient-dense pantry staples. Set dehydrators to 125°F for 8-10 hours, or until the product becomes brittle. You can crush the leaves into powder for soups or leave them whole for chips. Store in airtight containers with oxygen absorbers. My dehydrated chard still retains 85% of its vitamins after 18 months when stored in a cool, dark place.
Revive stored chard with ease using simple techniques. For refrigerator leaves, refresh wilting leaves in ice water for 15 minutes. For dried chard, rehydrate in broth for soup. For frozen chard, put it directly in the cooking pots and thaw it there. I have tested these techniques in my kitchen. When managed well, I can recover around 90% of the flavor and texture freshness from careful storage.
Read the full article: How to Grow Swiss Chard Successfully
