It’s almost here: summer! Though Oakleigh (at least today) looks like its in the depths of winter, it’s only a month away!
There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh, juicy fruit on a hot Australian summer day. From backyard barbecues to beach picnics, seasonal fruit is the perfect way to stay refreshed, hydrated, and healthy. But with temperatures soaring, keeping your fruit crisp and delicious can be a challenge. Here’s a look at some of the best summer fruits to keep in your fridge and how to make them last longer.
Mangoes
Synonymous with summer, mangoes are a true Aussie favourite. Whether you’re slicing them for breakfast, adding them to salads, or blitzing them into smoothies, their golden flesh and tropical aroma are irresistible. Once ripe, pop mangoes in the fridge to slow the ripening process and maintain that perfect texture. They’ll keep for up to five days when refrigerated. Our favourite mango? Sooshi Mango, of course!
Watermelon
No summer spread is complete without watermelon (or karpouzi as we say around here). It’s refreshing, low in calories, and packed with electrolytes, perfect for rehydration after a day in the sun. Keep whole watermelons at room temperature until you’re ready to cut them. Once sliced, store the pieces in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve their crispness and prevent them from absorbing other odours.
Berries
Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are small but mighty. They’re loaded with antioxidants and make a great snack or topping for yoghurt and muesli. However, berries can spoil quickly in warm weather. To keep them fresher for longer, line a container with paper towel, spread the berries in a single layer, and cover loosely before refrigerating. Avoid washing them until just before eating to prevent mould growth.
Cherries
Australian cherries are at their peak from November through January. These jewel-like fruits are best stored cold, ideally in the crisper drawer of your fridge. Keep them unwashed in a breathable bag, and only rinse right before eating. Properly stored, cherries can last up to a week and stay firm, juicy, and sweet.
Stone Fruits (Peaches, Nectarines, and Plums)
Stone fruits thrive in the Aussie summer and offer that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Let them ripen at room temperature first — you’ll know they’re ready when they give slightly to gentle pressure. Once ripe, transfer them to the fridge to extend freshness for a few more days. Chilling them too early can halt ripening and affect flavour, so timing is key.
Pineapple
Pineapple adds tropical flair to any summer dish, from fruit salads to grilled desserts. If your pineapple isn’t quite ripe, leave it on the bench for a day or two. Once ripe, refrigerate it whole or cut it into chunks and store in an airtight container. Cold pineapple stays juicy and refreshing, ready for any time you crave a taste of the tropics.
Keep Fruit Fresher for Longer with FruitHero
Even with the best storage practices, summer heat can take its toll on your fruit. That’s where FruitHero comes in. This innovative new device helps keep fruit fresh for up to three times longer by neutralising the fruit gas that accelerates ripening. Simply place FruitHero in your fridge or fruit drawer, and it works silently to maintain optimal freshness and flavour. Whether you’re stocking up on summer produce or cutting down on food waste, FruitHero is the hero your fruit deserves.
Fresh, flavourful fruit is one of summer’s simplest pleasures: and with the right care (and a little help from FruitHero), you can enjoy it for longer. Get all your fresh fruits this summer at 12 Chester St., Oakleigh!