Have you ever wondered, how do you store food so that it won’t go to waste? How can you make sure that ingredients will actually be used? How do you really turn dinner meals into lunch the next day? Can chips be opened and still stay fresh?
With these secret tips, you will finally get the answers to all of your food storage questions and more.
Furthermore, did you ever pull open the fridge and think, did that meal really look like that last night? Yuck! If this happens, it might just be that your food storage needs a little updating.
With these six secrets, the next time you go to eat your leftovers, you may think that they taste better than the original dish. Well, okay, more than likely just as good, but still it will be a major improvement.
Your fridge fears will finally come to an end with these easy solutions to the container chaos.
Table of Contents
Secret 1: Glass Wins Most of The Time
Okay, so what types of food storage containers should you actually buy?
Well, I know that you may not want to hear this because they are normally more expensive, but glass storage is really the way to go.
Honestly, it is actually cheaper to invest in glassware because you won’t throw it out as you do with plastic containers.
Glass is just cleaner. It stays nicer and it is going to allow you to store foods like sauces and chilis without having to be left with that stained plastic container.
I have always had problems with plastic storage and saucy foods.
It just doesn’t work. They are useless when it comes to storing sauce. The containers just look stained, so the next time you use them, it’s just kind of gross!
Pyrex is always a great brand to purchase because the products are dishwasher, microwave, oven, freezer, and refrigerator safe. These features are keys to successful food storage!
Of course, glass is not the best option for kids perhaps, but other than that, there really aren’t very many cons to using glass food storage containers for leftovers or pretty much anything for that matter.
Pick Plastic Sometimes
Now, if you aren’t making many red sauce based meals, then go ahead and shop the plastic storage options. They are lighter and less expensive. I have a few options from the brand GoodCook at Target that I really do like and these containers do wash well.
Another note here is that I normally just stick all of my containers on the top rack of the dishwasher. I really try to avoid handwashing as much as possible.
For fruits and veggies, I also prefer these go-to Rubbermaid plastic containers.
I do think that they keep fruits and veggies fresher longer.
Also, an old school trick to keep a bag of lettuce fresher is to just stick a paper towel in the bag. The moisture absorbs in the towel and doesn’t make your leaves all mushy and gross!
Hopefully all of these containers will be just as useful to you as they are for me!
Secret 2: Bags & Containers
What are food storage bags even good for? Why even buy them?
Okay, so food storage bags are definitely an underrated must-have kitchen item. These bags can really be quite helpful.
Also, there is a difference between a food storage bag and a freezer food storage bag.
A food storage bag can be quite useful for marinating chicken or pork chops.
You can stick all of your ingredients in there and let the flavor sink in all day. It is also a quick clean-up process. Just toss out the bag!
On the other hand, freezer bags are an easy go-to way to store meats, soups, and more.
You should keep ready to go slices of chicken, formed burgers with wax paper in between, pork chops, fish, and all other meat options in freezer bags.
It is easier to do so because when you defrost meat in a bag, you are less likely to have any bacteria contamination since you can just toss the bag.
As for the plastic freezer containers, use those for dessert options.
Store cookies, cupcakes, muffins, scones, and more in plastic containers so that you can guarantee that your items don’t get smashed or broken.
I understand your concerns about maintaining your shape. Well the shape of your cookies that is! It is definitely heart breaking to see your beautiful pizzelle smashed and crummy in a frozen bag.
Use these plastic freezer containers above so that your cookie doesn’t crumble like the saying goes.
Secret 3: Pantry & Countertops
Countertops and pantries are also a tough place to keep organized. With the right food storage containers, you can eliminate the extra bulk of cereal boxes, chip bags, and snacks taking up valuable real estate.
For most items in your pantry, you want to make sure that you buy airtight containers so that your chips and cereals don’t go stale.
Also, airtight containers are great to ensure that your pasta stays just right too!
Two brands that I highly recommend would be Oxo and Rubbermaid Brilliance. Some people prefer the Oxo over the Rubbermaid, but both do just as they say.
They keep all of your favorite foods fresh!
For your countertops, you still want to ensure that your foods stay fresh, but you also need something that is easier to open for quick snacking.
Also, since these jars of food will be out on display, you want them to fit your kitchen decor style as well.
It is nice to have some healthy snacks in clear containers that are easy to open so that if you feel hungry, you can snack happy and go.
At least, you can hope that you make better choices.
Secret 4: Food Storage for a Gathering
For those larger gatherings, it is always nice to have some useful yet festive food storage containers.
I love having containers with lids so that you can store your dips that you make ahead.
Plus this really helps with the clean-up process too.
Of course, these options are dishwasher safe too!
A beautiful container just makes for a lovely display for your chips, crackers, cheese, and more.
Secret 5: Food Storage for On The Go
My sister Marguerite has definitely convinced me that the Bento products are the way to go for lunches and snacking.
Bento really does understand that it is awful having spills and food touching when you are young and well when you are old!
For casseroles and potlucks, you must have a go-to glass dish and carrying container.
All of these options allow you and your loved ones to enjoy delicious favorites on the go and at the book club potluck!
Secret 6: Have Fun with Food Storage
In all things in life, you must have a little bit of fun too!
With these fun freezer items, you can create your own delicious treats in all shapes and sizes.
Over the summer, Sadie and I created several different types of popsicles.
Our favorite was the combo of chocolate pudding and crushed Oreos. We just made the pudding, mixed in the Oreos, and then froze it into popsicle molds.
It is also fun to make ice cubes in different shapes.
You could freeze your favorite juice and just put a few of these ice cubes in your water for added flavor.
There are people who eat to live and then there are those who live to eat!
Have fun either way!
Container Choas No More
Now you can rest easy knowing that you have perfected your food storage containers.
Ready for it all. You are prepared at home and on the go.
Your prized casserole dish can now travel spill free to your next gathering too!
The chaos is over and your new worry is hiding your favorite snacks. Good luck!
& Remember
Start with the Bed,
Juliet
