How to Store Beets So They Stay Fresh for Months, According to Experts

Between their deep pink hue and sweet, earthy flavor, beets are some of the most unique (yet underappreciated) items in the produce aisle. And, like many other root vegetables, they can also last a long time—so long as you store them properly. If you don't, beets can quickly dry out, causing them to become shriveled and wrinkly. To keep them in top shape, follow these tips on how to store beets, according to culinary professionals.

How to Store Beets

Like most vegetables, beets do well stored in the refrigerator but there are other options too.

In the Crisper Drawer

"Beets can be prone to drying out, so the extra moisture in the crisper drawer can help keep them moist and fresh for longer," says Emilie Berner, chef-instructor of plant-based culinary arts at the Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles. Here's how to store beets in the crisper drawer:

1. Cut off the green tops, about an inch above the beet, per the experts at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). Line your crisper drawer with a clean paper towel.
2. Place the beets in the drawer, leaving any dirt on. This will help retain moisture and preserve the vegetable, says Berner.
3. If you have other vegetables in the drawer, you can put the beets in a plastic bag before placing it in the drawer.
   

Note that you should leave the skin on the beets and also the root, sometimes known as the "tail." These parts will protect the beets, helping them last longer, says Cara Duerr, chef and co-owner of Seed to Sprout, a plant-based cafe in New Jersey.

Shelf Life: Beets will last about one to two months in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, according to Bryan Quoc Le, Ph.D., food scientist, food consultant, and author of 150 Food Science Questions Answered.

In a Cool, Dark Place

All root vegetables, including beets, can be stored outside of the fridge, says Berner. The ideal spot is a root cellar, but any cool, dark place (such as the basement) will do. Make sure the beets aren't touching other items or vegetables during storage.

Shelf Life: When stored in a cool, dark area, beets will last for two to four months, according to the experts at Ohio State University.  

In the Freezer

To extend the shelf-life of beets even further, you can also freeze them. Here's how:

1. Cut off the beet tops.
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the beets.
3. Boil the beets for 30 minutes, says Le. They're ready when they’re fork tender.
4. Drain the beets and place them in ice bath.
5. Peel the beets with a vegetable peeler. Cut off the roots, then cut the beets into slices or cubes.
6. Place the beets on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single, even layer.
7. Freeze until solid, about 1 to 2 hours.
8. Transfer the frozen beets into a freezer-safe silicone or plastic bag.

Shelf Life: Beets will last up to one year in the freezer, according to Le.

How to Store Beet Greens

Don't be so quick to toss the beet tops. They're edible and have a mild earthy flavor, plus they can be used just like other leafy greens such as Swiss chard or kale.

To save beet greens for later, wash and wrap them in a clean paper towel, says Berner. The damp towel will keep them fresh for five to seven days, she notes.

Tips for Storing Beets

Choose fresh beets: The fresher the beet, the longer it will last at home. Look for beets with smooth, firm skin and bright green leaves, per the experts at UNL. Avoid ones with damage, discolroation, or wilted leaves, as this means they're on their way out.

Avoid washing before storing: Although beets need some moisture to stay fresh, overdoing it can shorten their lifespan. Therefore, you'll want to "avoid washing them until [you're ready to use them] to help keep mold and rotting at bay," says Duerr.

Cut off the leaves and stems: Before storing beets, always cut off the leaves and stems, says Duerr. "The leaves and stems tend to go bad rather quickly, which will shorten the lifespan of your beets," adds Duerr.

How to Tell If Beets Have Gone Bad

Although beets can last a long time, they will eventually go bad. If beets have mold, a mushy texture, or an undesirable odor, it's best to throw them away, says Le. You should also toss them if they've become shriveled or faded in color.