Last Updated on November 4, 2022 by Lauren Beck
If you’re like most people, you probably have a love-hate relationship with grape tomatoes. On one hand, they’re an incredibly versatile and healthy little fruit. On the other hand, they’re so darn delicate that it feels like half of them go bad before you can even enjoy them. So the question remains – do grape tomatoes need to be refrigerated?
The answer is both yes and no. If you plan on eating your grape tomatoes within a few days, then it’s best to keep them refrigerated. This will help to prolong their shelf life. However, if you don’t think you’ll be able to eat them all before they go bad, then it’s actually better to leave them out on the counter. The cool temperatures of the fridge can actually cause grape tomatoes to become mealy and mushy.
So there you have it! Whether or not you refrigerate your grape tomatoes is entirely up to you. Just be sure to eat them before they go bad either way!
What is Grape Tomato?
Grape tomato is a class of tomatoes believed to be of Southeast Asian origin. They are called grape tomatoes because they grow in small clustered like grapes. And just like the name suggests, they are small in size and have a slightly sweet taste.
Appearance
Grape tomatoes can be oval or spherical in shape. The skin is smooth with a glossy sheen and can vary in color from yellow, pink, green, to red.
Nutrition
Grape tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C. They also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease.
Health Benefits
The health benefits of grape tomatoes include:
- Reduced risk of cancer
- Reduced risk of heart disease
- Improved vision
- Stronger bones
- Boosted immune system
- Lower blood pressure
How To Store Grape Tomatoes?
The best way to store grape tomatoes is on the counter at room temperature. Do not wash the tomatoes until you are ready to eat them as this can speed up the spoilage process. If you need to store them for more than a few days, place them in a plastic bag or container with holes in the fridge. Be sure to check on them regularly and use them as soon as possible.
How Long Do Grape Tomatoes Last?
Grape tomatoes will last anywhere from 3-5 days on the counter and up to 2 weeks in the fridge. Once they start to shrivel or develop mold, it’s time to toss them out.
How To Store Unripe Grape Tomatoes?
If you have grape tomatoes that are not quite ripe, you can store them in a paper bag at room temperature. This will help to speed up the ripening process. Once they are ripe, be sure to eat them within a few days as they will not last as long as fully ripened grape tomatoes.
Can Grape Tomatoes Be Frozen?
Yes, grape tomatoes can be frozen! This is a great way to extend their shelf life and enjoy them all year long. Simply wash and dry the tomatoes, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to label and date the bag so you know when they were frozen. Frozen grape tomatoes will last for up to 6 months.
When thawed, grape tomatoes will be slightly softer in texture but will still be safe to eat. They are best used in cooked dishes or sauces as they will not hold their shape well when thawed.
What To Do With Leftover Grape Tomatoes?
There are so many delicious ways to use up leftover grape tomatoes! Here are a few of our favorites:
- Toss them in a salad
- Add them to a pasta dish
- Roast them with other veggies
- Use them as a pizza topping
- Puree them into a soup or sauce
- Make a grape tomatoconfit
How To Tell If Grape Tomatoes Have Gone Bad?
Grape tomatoes that have gone bad will be shriveled and soft to the touch. They may also have mold growing on them [1]. If you see any of these signs, it’s best to throw them out.
If you’re not sure if your grape tomatoes are still good, give them a sniff. Bad grape tomatoes will have an off-putting smell that is sour or fermented.
Conclusion
Grape tomatoes do not need to be refrigerated, but they will last longer if stored in the fridge. Be sure to eat them within a few days for the best flavor and texture. You can also freeze grape tomatoes to extend their shelf life. When thawed, they are best used in cooked dishes as they will not hold their shape well.
Reference:
- https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-tell-if-a-tomato-is-good-bad-23402454
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