Shelf Life Tips
- How long do nectarines last? The precise answer to that question depends to a large extent on storage conditions - after purchasing, keep nectarines in a dry area.
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Properly stored, nectarines will become fully ripe in about 2 to 3 days at normal room temperature.
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How can you make nectarines ripen faster? To hasten ripening, put nectarines in a brown paper bag, close it and leave on the counter.
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Do not refrigerate nectarines until they are fully ripe - allowing to ripen at room temperature will result in more flavorful, juicy nectarines.
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To extend the shelf life of fully ripe nectarines, place in a plastic bag and refrigerate; for best results, bring the nectarines back to room temperature before using.
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How long do nectarines last in the refrigerator? Fully ripe nectarines will last for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge.
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Can you freeze raw nectarines? Yes: (1) Wash, pit and halve or slice nectarines; (2) Coat nectarines with a solution made of 1/2 teaspoon of ascorbic acid for each 6 tablespoons of cold water to prevent darkening; (3) Add 2/3 cup sugar to each quart of fruit and stir until sugar is dissolved; (4) Place in covered airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
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How long do nectarines last in the freezer? Properly stored, they will maintain best quality for about 10 to 12 months, but will remain safe beyond that time.
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The freezer time shown is for best quality only - nectarines that have been kept constantly frozen at 0°F will keep safe indefinitely.
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How to tell if nectarines are bad or spoiled? Nectarines that are spoiling will typically become very soft, develop dark spots and start to ooze; discard any nectarines if mold appears or if the nectarines have an off smell or appearance.
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