Basil- Trim the ends and place basil in a glass containing about 1 inch of water; then cover with a loose-fitting plastic bag and leave at room temp. Replace the water whenever it gets cloudy. Should keep for about a week.
Tomatoes- Depending on ripeness, tomatoes can stay for up to two weeks on the counter. To hasten ripeness, place in a paper bag with an apple.
Grapes- Store, unwashed, in your refrigerator's fruit drawer. They last up to a week.
Plums- Plums should be stored at room temperature until ripe. After ripe, refrigerate as necessary to prevent spoiling. Will last up to 5 days.
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Nectarines- Store at room temperature until ripe — this usually takes 2 to 3 days. A ripe fruit will yield a bit when pressed gently. To speed up the ripening process, place in a paper bag and store at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Storing ripe stone fruit in the crisper drawer will prolong its eating life — it should keep for up to a week when refrigerated.
Melons- Leave at room temperature until they have reached desired ripeness - eat 'em! Last 1-4 days depending on ripeness to start.
Peppers- Keep in the crisper for best results and wash before use. We do not wash them so that they keep their natural protective bloom. Even some organic peppers are washed and waxed for the stores. You can also dry the hot peppers: string thread through the top of each pepper and hang to dry.
Potatoes- Store potatoes in a cool, well ventilated place. Don't wash the potatoes before storing as dampness promotes early spoilage. Will last at least one week.
Beets- Cut the tops off to keep beets firm (be sure to keep the greens!) by leaving any top on the root vegetables draws moisture from the root, making the lose flavor and firmness. Beets should be washed and kept in an open container with a wet towel on top. Keeps for several weeks.
Onion- Store in a cool dry place out of the light. Lasts 2-3 months.
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Zucchini- Does fine for a few days if left out on a cool counter, even after cut. Wrap in a cloth and refrigerate for longer storage. Do not wash until ready to eat. Lasts 4-5 days.