Stop putting tomatoes in the fridge - one storage method keeps them fresher

If you want to keep your tomatoes fresher and tastier for longer, then you should try one storage method that bears great results. Tomatoes are a staple of British kitchens. They are used for a huge number of dishes. Over the summer, tomatoes are used in things like salads and light sandwiches. When we come into the colder months of the year, tomatoes can be used for wholesome pasta dishes and heart-warming soups.

If you got your tomatoes a few days ago and you're worried that they won't be as nice in a few days' time when you plan on cooking with them, then there is one storage method you should try. Many Brits would usually store their tomatoes in the fridge, but this apparently isn't the best way to store them. This is because of how it affects the flavour and the firmness of the fruit. One person tried several ways of storing tomatoes, with one being hailed as the best.

Rachel Dolfi from The Kitchen tried several tomato storage methods. The best, she says, doesn't involve the fridge at all. However, there is a simple trick involved.

"This particular technique was my absolute favourite! It was simple and quick, and I didn't have to worry about my cat constantly batting my upside-down tomatoes right-side up," she wrote. "The theory is the same as the upside-down tomatoes, in which you create a barrier to potential bits of bacteria and mould. Place a small piece of tape (any kind will do) over the small stem bump and leave it there until you are ready to use your tomato."

She added: "I was thrilled to see the tomato was essentially the same as when I'd purchased it 10 days ago. The skin was tight, there was no visible moisture loss, and when I lightly pressed on the tomato, it bounced back easily. Once you're ready to put BLTs on the dinner menu, just remove the tape and slice them up."

The idea of placing tape over the top of the tomato has been tried and tested by many, and it works well. It stops the loss of moisture and slows down the ripening process to keep the tomatoes plumper for longer.

However, it is important to keep them out of the fridge. This is because the fridge takes away from the rich flavour of a tomato. "Skipping the step of refrigerating and bringing the tomato back to room temperature made my weeknight meal easy and accessible," the author said.

If you don't have tape, a close backup is to place your tomatoes upside down. This helps to block the top of the tomato, keeping in the moisture and the plumpness.