Do you ever question how to store your Brussels sprouts?

We are here to help with our guide on how to store Brussels sprouts! These tiny green gems are not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly versatile in the kitchen. 

Whether you’ve just picked up a fresh batch from the market or harvested them from your home garden, knowing how to store Brussels sprouts properly can make all the difference in maintaining their flavor and texture. 

Below we will share the best methods for keeping your Brussels sprouts fresh, whether they’re whole, on the stalk, or cut. And as a bonus, we will show you how easily you can freeze them!

We love Brussels sprouts and their versatility, and we want to make sure you can keep them fresh so that you can enjoy them all the time.

How To Select Brussels Sprouts

Selecting Brussels sprouts involves a few key steps to ensure you pick the freshest and tastiest ones. 

Choose sprouts that are small to medium-sized, about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Larger sprouts can be tough and bitter. You should also look for vibrant green sprouts. When selecting, the Brussels Sprouts should feel firm and compact.

Check for tightly packed leaves and that the stems are intact and still green. Fresh Brussels sprouts should  also have a mild, earthy smell. 

How to Store: Whole Brussels Sprouts

To store whole Brussels sprouts, keep them unwashed in a breathable bag or container in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer. Ideally, they should be used within a week for the best flavor and texture. 

Avoid sealing them in plastic bags, as this can trap moisture and lead to spoilage. For longer storage, you can blanch and freeze Brussels sprouts, which will preserve their taste and nutrients for several months.

How To Store: On the Stalk

If the sprouts are still attached to their stalk, they can stay fresh longer.

We recommend keeping the entire stalk in the refrigerator. You can hang it up or place it upright in a container with a little water, similar to how you would store fresh flowers. This will help maintain moisture. This method helps preserve their freshness and flavor longer than storing them loose. 

When you’re ready to use them, simply snap off the sprouts you need, trimming away any yellow or wilted leaves before cooking. This way, you can enjoy the sprouts at their peak freshness for an extended period.

How to Store: Cut Brussels Sprouts

To store cut Brussels sprouts, place them in an airtight container or a resealable bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed to minimize moisture. Keep the container in the refrigerator, where the cooler temperature will help maintain their freshness. 

It’s best to use cut Brussels sprouts within a few days for optimal taste and texture, as they can begin to lose flavor and become soggy over time. If you notice any signs of wilting or browning, trim those parts away before cooking. 

Can You Freeze Brussels Sprouts?

For longer storage, you can blanch the cut sprouts briefly in boiling water, cool them rapidly in ice water, and then freeze them in a sealed bag.

Wash and Trim: Rinse the sprouts under cold water and trim off any damaged or yellow leaves. Cut off the stem ends if needed.

Blanch: Bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare a bowl of ice water. Add the Brussels sprouts to the boiling water and blanch them for about 3-5 minutes, depending on their size. This helps preserve color, flavor, and nutrients.

Cool Quickly: After blanching, immediately transfer the sprouts to the ice water to stop the cooking process. Let them cool for the same amount of time you blanched them.

Drain and Dry: Once cooled, drain the sprouts and pat them dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.

Pack for Freezing: Place the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for a couple of hours until solid. Then transfer them to airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Label and Store: Label the bags with the date and store them in the freezer. They can be kept for 10-12 months.

When you’re ready to use them, you can cook them directly from frozen or thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. 

Ways to Enjoy Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts can be delicious in a variety of preparations! Experimenting with some of the ideas below will help you find your new favorite Brussels Sprout recipe! 

Roasted: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy and caramelized. You can also use the Air Fryer for a crunchy and flavorful result!

Sautéed: Cook in a pan with garlic, olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice for a quick side dish. Add a little bacon and onion for an elevated sautee.

Steamed: Steam until tender and drizzle with balsamic vinegar or melted butter.

Shredded Salad: Thinly slice raw Brussels sprouts and toss with a vinaigrette, nuts, and dried cranberries or enjoy a Copycat Burrata Cheese and Brussels Sprouts Salad.

Gratin: Bake with cream, cheese, and breadcrumbs for a rich, comforting dish.

Pasta: Toss with pasta, garlic, and Parmesan for a simple, flavorful meal.

Stir-Fry: Add to stir-fries with other vegetables and a savory sauce.

Brussels Sprout Slaw: Mix with carrots and a tangy dressing for a fresh slaw.

Pickled: Quick-pickle for a tangy snack or sandwich topping. Anything pickled is great, right?

Crispy Chips: Thinly slice and bake until crispy for a healthy snack.

Soup: Blend cooked Brussels sprouts into a creamy soup with potatoes and leeks.

Pizza Topping: Roast and use as a unique pizza topping with cheese and your favorite sauce.

Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap with bacon and roast for a savory treat.

Stuffed: Hollow out and fill with a mixture of grains, cheese, and herbs.

In a Hash or Frittata: Add to an egg mixture for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

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