The one produce that actually lasts longer on the counter

There’s one notable fruit that’s best kept out of the fridge for as long as possible, for a reason you’d never guess.

A lot of us pop fruits and vegetables in the fridge straightaway because it just seems like that’s what we should do. And it’s true that most produce lasts longer that way, but certainly not all.

You’re probably not refrigerating onions, potatoes or bananas. If you are, stop! But those aren’t what I’m thinking about in the summer specifically, when gardens are booming and it seems like I’m swimming in fresh produce.

Surprisingly, a lot of summer produce fares quite well out of the fridge for a few days. There’s one notable fruit that’s best kept out of the fridge for as long as possible, for a reason you’d never guess.

The One Fruit You Should Put off Refrigerating

It’s watermelon! This makes me happy because a whole watermelon takes up a lot of space, even if it’s a personal watermelon. You can just keep it at room temp until you’re ready to cut it. 

Unless, of course, you want it chilled and you plan to serve it straightaway after you slice it up.

In the South, a truckful of watermelons on the side of the road is a common summer sight. I promise you those watermelons haven’t been in a fridge! All over the world in watermelon-loving regions, summer watermelons will lurk in dark cellars or on shady stoops. It’s been happening for centuries, but of course our ancestors didn’t have refrigeration. Still, for both factors of taste and nutrition, the best way to store watermelons is indeed unrefrigerated. 

Why Watermelon Lasts Longer on the Counter

In produce industry terms, “cold injury” can occur when watermelon is chilled for too long. It can render the flesh pulpy and less juicy. The less time it’s chilled, the better it’ll taste … and the better it’ll be for you. A 2006 U.S. Department of Agriculture study showed that watermelons that were stored at room temperature retained more of their beneficial antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and lycopene.

You should still keep it in a cool place, ideally between 50°F to 59°F, according to  The National Watermelon Promotion Board. My kitchen isn’t that cool, but it’s still preferable to the fridge as far as whole watermelon goes.

Related: The Best Way To Store Whole Watermelon, According to Farmers

Tips for Storing Whole Watermelon 

I’m not against the luxurious pleasure of devouring chunks of sweet, cold watermelon. I am all for that watermelon to be as tasty and juicy as possible. Here’s how to walk the line in style.

• The counter is fine for a few days. A cool, dark basement is a good place for one to hang out for a while, even up to a few weeks. I suggest a basement.
• Keep the watermelon away from light.
• If the whole watermelon is already cold, keep it cold. Fluctuations in temperature can alter the flavor and texture.
• While an uncut watermelon keeps for up to a month or longer in ideal conditions, its flavor is best right after harvesting. 
• If you like cold watermelon, for optimal flavor wait until that day you plan to cut and serve it to chill it.
• Always wash a whole melon before you cut into it.

Related: The Only Way To Store Cut Watermelon, According to an Expert

Read the original article on Simply Recipes