How to Store Whole Beets

To properly store whole beets, begin by chopping off all but a stub of the beets’ greens, keeping the bulb intact. Discard the extra beet greens, or save them to sauté in garlic and olive oil for a simple side dish. It’s best to keep the skin on, which protects the interior and keeps the beet fresh for longer. Avoid washing the beets, no matter how ruddy they are, as the moisture will cause them to rot more quickly. Store whole beets in the cool, dry environment of your crisper drawer. No need to place them in a plastic bag or other container first, which would inhibit ventilation. Stored like this in the refrigerator, beets can last for up to two months.

How to Store Cut Beets

The best way to store cut beets is in a container lined with a moist paper towel in the refrigerator. With this method, cut beets will last for around five days, giving you plenty of time to add them to a salad, dip, or smoothie.

Can You Freeze Beets?

Raw beets are prone to sogginess when frozen and thawed, so it’s best to cook the beets first if you plan on freezing them. Frozen cooked beets will last for about a year. While we don’t suggest tossing thawed beets in a salad or sandwich, they will work well in a dip or smoothie.