Do you know how to store spinach? By now, we all know that spinach is good for us. It is one of the most versatile greens you can include in your diet! While spinach is delicious in countless dishes, knowing how to properly store it is key to keeping it fresh, nutritious, and ready to use whenever you need it. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the best techniques for storing spinach, whether it’s fresh or cooked, to help you extend its shelf life and maintain its vibrant color and flavor. From simple tips for refrigeration to innovative freezing methods, you’ll find everything you need to make the most of this leafy green!

What Is the Shelf Life of Spinach?

The shelf life of fresh spinach typically ranges from 3 to 7 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. However, its freshness can vary depending on how it’s handled and stored. 

Spinach that is left unwashed and kept in a breathable container—such as a perforated plastic bag or a container with paper towels to absorb moisture—will usually last a bit longer. 

If spinach is washed before storage, it may wilt and spoil more quickly, often within 2 to 4 days. 

For longer storage, spinach can be blanched and frozen.

How To Store Fresh Spinach

To store fresh spinach, start by avoiding washing it until you’re ready to use it. Excess moisture can cause the leaves to wilt and spoil more quickly. It’s best to leave the spinach unwashed if you plan to store it for more than a day or two. 

Place the spinach in a breathable storage container with ventilation holes to allow airflow. If you’re using a regular plastic bag, you can loosely roll or fold the bag.

Alternatively, you can line a container with paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. It helps to prevent wilting and mold growth.

When storing spinach, refrigeration is key. Keep it in the crisper drawer of your fridge, where the temperature is usually more consistent and slightly more humid. This is ideal for most leafy greens.

If your spinach is pre-washed or if you’ve rinsed it before storing, be sure to dry the leaves thoroughly. Wet spinach stored in an airtight container will spoil quickly, so it’s crucial to eliminate moisture before storing. 

With these methods, fresh spinach can last anywhere from 3 to 7 days, depending on its initial freshness.

How To Store Cooked Spinach

Storing cooked spinach properly is essential to preserve its flavor and texture. After cooking, allow the spinach to cool to room temperature before storing it to prevent condensation.

Once cooled, transfer the cooked spinach to an airtight container, and refrigerate it within two hours of cooking. It can typically be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. 

How To Freeze Spinach: Whole or Chopped

Freezing spinach is a great way to preserve its freshness for months, especially if you have an abundance of fresh spinach that you can’t use right away. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to freeze spinach while maintaining its flavor and nutritional value:

Wash and Prepare the Spinach: First, rinse the spinach thoroughly under cold water. Then, drain the spinach and pat it dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. It’s important that the spinach is as dry as possible before freezing to avoid ice crystals forming.

Blanch the Spinach: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. While the water is heating up, prepare an ice water bath by filling a large bowl with ice and water. Once the water is boiling, add the spinach in batches. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the leaves wilt and turn a vibrant green. 

Immediately transfer the spinach to the ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to quickly move the spinach from the pot to the ice water.

Drain and Dry: After the spinach has cooled in the ice water for a few minutes, drain it thoroughly. You can use a colander to strain the spinach, then gently press out any excess water with the back of a spoon or by wrapping it in a clean kitchen towel.

Once you full drain and dry it, you can chop the spinach into smaller pieces, if desired.

Flash Freeze (Optional but Recommended): Spread the blanched spinach in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray. Make sure the leaves aren’t overlapping too much so they freeze individually.

Place the tray in the freezer for about 1 to 2 hours, or until the spinach is frozen solid. This step helps prevent the spinach from freezing into one large clump, making it easier to portion out later.

Package the Spinach: Once the spinach is frozen, transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container or freezer bag. For bags, press out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Ideally, use the spinach within 3 months for the best quality.

How To Freeze: Pureed Spinach

Just like freezing whole or chopped spinach, you should wash and prepare the spinach along with draining and drying it before pureeing.

Next, run the whole leaves through a blender with a small amount of water. Add the puree to an ice cube tray. Let them freeze overnight. You can take them out of the ice cube tray and store in an airtight container for up to 6 or 9 months.

This method is super simple and is great for soups, smoothies or sauces.

Related: Freezing Herbs

Ways To Enjoy Spinach

Spinach is a nutritional powerhouse. And it is great raw and cooked. Plus, its versatility means it can be used in everything from smoothies to savory dishes. Whether you prefer it simple or as part of a complex recipe, there are countless ways to enjoy this leafy green.

Salads: Fresh spinach leaves make a great base for salads. You can also use warm spinach for salads. Simply, wilt the spinach slightly in a hot pan before adding it to your salad.

Smoothies: Blend fresh spinach with fruits like bananas, berries, or mangoes, and add some yogurt or almond milk for a healthy and refreshing smoothie. The spinach blends well with the fruit, offering a mild flavor and adding a significant nutrient boost.

Sautéed: Heat olive oil or butter in a pan, and add garlic and a pinch of salt. Toss fresh spinach into the pan and sauté for a couple of minutes until wilted. This makes for a quick and flavorful side dish. Don’t be afraid to mix in other vegetables like onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a more complex and hearty side dish.

Soups and Stews: Spinach is a great soup on its own or within a recipe. Spinach is great to add to stews or curries. The spinach adds both a richness and nutrients.

Spinach in Eggs: Add fresh or frozen spinach to scrambled eggs for an easy breakfast. The spinach wilts down quickly and mixes well with eggs. It is also perfect to add into an omelet, breakfast hash or even egg bites.

Pasta: Spinach adds so much flavor and nutrients to any pasta dish. You can simply add it to a lasagna or tortellini. You could also use it to create a fresh pesto or garlic sauce.

Dips: Spinach is a great addition to many popular dips, like spinach artichoke dip or a spinach yogurt dip. 

Related: 7 Easy Dips for Veggie Lovers eBook

Baked Goods: Incorporating spinach into savory muffins or breads can be a great way to sneak in extra veggies. It is also a classic ingredient for quiches.

Wraps and Sandwiches: Use spinach leaves to add crunch and nutrients to wraps and sandwiches. 

Also, did you know that you can use spinach as an ingredient for homemade dog treats or even popsicles?