The Best Guide to Keep Celery Fresh
Celery is a crunchy, low-calorie vegetable that’s essential for soups, salads, and snacks. However, it can wilt and lose its crispness quickly if not stored properly. Knowing how long celery lasts—and the best ways to store it—ensures you always have fresh, crunchy celery ready for your recipes.
Shelf Life of Celery
- At Room Temperature (Whole, Uncut):
- Fresh Celery: 1-2 days
- In the Refrigerator:
- Whole Celery (wrapped in foil): 3-4 weeks
- Cut Celery Sticks (in water): 7-10 days
- Bagged Celery (store-bought): 2-3 weeks
- In the Freezer (Blanched or Raw):
- Frozen Celery (for cooking only): 10-12 months
Best Practices for Storing Celery
- Wrap in Aluminum Foil – Wrapping whole celery in foil and placing it in the crisper drawer helps keep it fresh for up to a month by preventing ethylene gas buildup.
- Store in Water – Cut celery stalks can stay crisp longer by storing them in a jar of water in the refrigerator. Change the water every few days.
- Avoid Airtight Containers – Store whole celery loosely to allow for air circulation, preventing moisture buildup and spoilage.
- Freeze for Cooking – Slice and blanch celery for 2-3 minutes before freezing to preserve its texture and flavor for soups and stews.
- Separate Leaves and Stalks – Store celery leaves separately to prevent moisture loss from the stalks.
Signs Celery Is Going Bad
- Wilted or Limp Stalks – Celery can be revived by soaking in ice water, but excessive limpness indicates spoilage.
- Soft or Mushy Texture – If the stalks become overly soft and slimy, it’s best to discard them.
- Yellow or Brown Discoloration – Yellowing stalks suggest aging but are still edible. Brown spots indicate spoilage.
- Off Smell – Celery that smells sour or off is no longer fresh.
How to Use Celery Before It Spoils
- Soups and Stews
- Celery Juices and Smoothies
- Celery Sticks with Dips
- Stir-Fries
- Homemade Vegetable Broth
By storing celery correctly, you can extend its shelf life and enjoy its crispness for weeks. Whether you’re making snacks, soups, or smoothies, these storage tips ensure your celery stays fresh and ready to use.