Produce bowls are a staple in many kitchens around the world. Not only do they provide a beautiful and colorful decoration, but they also serve a practical purpose of keeping fresh fruit and vegetables easily accessible for snacking and cooking.
A produce bowl in the kitchen can inspire healthy eating habits. When fresh fruit and veggies are easily accessible, I know my family and I are more likely to choose it as a snack instead of reaching for processed or unhealthy options. Placing a fruit bowl on the kitchen counter or table, for example is a subtle reminder to make healthier choices throughout the day.
Produce bowls are also a great way to add some color and vibrancy to your kitchen decor. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a more eclectic one, there are countless produce bowl designs and styles to choose from. A sleek, modern bowl made of glass or metal can add a contemporary touch, while a rustic wooden bowl can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
In this post, I want to share 8 natural and woven produce storage options that are tiered or come in a multi-pack to really optimize your produce storage in your kitchen!
In addition to being functional and decorative, produce bowls can also serve as a way to reduce food waste. By keeping fresh fruit and veg visible and easily accessible, it’s less likely to go bad before it can be eaten. This can save you money on grocery bills and reduce your impact on the environment by minimizing food waste.
When selecting a produce bowl for your kitchen, consider the size and shape of the bowl, as well as the types of foods you plan to store in it. Some fruit, like bananas and apples, are larger and may require a deeper bowl, while smaller fruits like berries may do better in a shallower dish. It’s also important to consider the material of the bowl, as certain materials may be more prone to staining or absorbing odors.
Fruits + Veggies that Don’t Require Refrigeration
There are many types of produce that don’t require refrigeration, which is great for those who don’t have access to a fridge or are looking to reduce their energy consumption. Here are a few to consider when thinking about how to fill these produce storage options:
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes. They also happen to be one of the most common produce items that don’t require refrigeration. Tomatoes can be stored at room temperature for several days, but they should be eaten before they become too soft or start to wrinkle.
- Avocados
Avocados are another fruit that doesn’t require refrigeration. In fact, refrigerating avocados can actually slow down the ripening process, which can be a problem if you’re trying to get them ripe quickly. Avocados can be stored at room temperature until they are ripe, and then they can be refrigerated to keep them fresh for a few more days.
- Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and limes are also produce items that don’t require refrigeration. These fruits can be stored at room temperature for several days, and they actually taste better when they’re not too cold. However, if you’re storing them for longer than a few days, you may want to refrigerate them to extend their shelf life.
- Potatoes
Potatoes are a staple in many households, and they don’t require refrigeration. In fact, storing potatoes in the fridge can actually cause them to become sweeter, which can be a problem if you’re trying to cook them. Potatoes can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks.
- Onions
Onions are another vegetable that doesn’t require refrigeration. They can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks, but they should be kept away from potatoes, as they can cause each other to spoil faster.
- Garlic
Garlic is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes, and it doesn’t require refrigeration. It can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks, but it should be kept away from other produce items, as it can cause them to become moldy.
- Apples
Apples are a great snack that can be stored at room temperature for several days. However, if you’re storing them for longer than a few days, you may want to refrigerate them to extend their shelf life.
A produce bowl in the kitchen is a simple yet effective way to promote healthy eating habits, add some color to your decor, and reduce food waste. With so many styles and designs to choose from, there’s sure to be a fruit bowl that fits your personal taste and kitchen aesthetic. So, go ahead and add one to your shopping list – your kitchen (and your health) will thank you for it!
. . . also make sure to check out my post about using stair treads as open shelving for more kitchen storage ideas.