Bell peppers are versatile vegetables that can be used in almost any dish to add flavor, color, and intensity. Whether green, red, or yellow, bell peppers are loaded with nutritional goodness.
If your peppers are starting to lose their freshness, you might wonder: Have my peppers gone bad? How long do they last?
Here’s the gist: fresh whole peppers last about 1-3 weeks in the fridge, depending on the color of the pepper. Freezing your bell peppers keeps them even fresher for longer, for up to 4-6 months.
How To Tell If Your Peppers Have Gone Bad
Make sure to inspect your bell peppers if you’re worried about them spoiling. Fortunately, peppers give off certain tell-tale signs that they are going bad.
Firm peppers show that your bell peppers are still fresh. So as soon as you notice any wrinkles or soft skin on your peppers, they are about to go off. These peppers can still be cooked, but you probably won’t be satisfied eating them raw.
After your peppers start becoming soft, the next natural step will be a slimy surface and possible mold growth. Any mold is a warning sign to get rid of your peppers.
If you take a whiff of your bell peppers and they smell off, it’s time to let go of them.
Lastly, if they seem okay but aren’t too sure, take a few bites of your bell peppers. If they aren’t up to standard, there’s no need to hold onto them.
How To Store Bell Peppers
Ready to store your bell peppers but not sure where the best spot is? Well, the vegetable drawer in the fridge is the ideal place to store your peppers. Make sure that your bell peppers are as dry as possible before storing them. Excess moisture can cause them to spoil quicker than usual.
If you have cut up your bell peppers, keep them in an airtight, sealed container or plastic bag in the fridge. Pro tip: add paper towels to absorb any excess moisture.
Can You Freeze Bell Peppers?
If you’re looking for a long-term option for storing your bell peppers, the freezer is your best bet.
First, rinse and dry your peppers thoroughly. Cut them in half, removing the seeds and white parts inside. Then cut your bell peppers into strips. If your peppers are still pretty damp, use paper towels to dry them out.
The next step is to flash-freeze your bell peppers. Place your pepper pieces in a single layer on a tray, preferably not touching each other. Put the tray in the freezer for an hour or more.
After this, transfer your frozen pepper pieces to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible and seal tightly.
When ready to use your peppers, simply pop them into your pot. If you want to enjoy them raw, wait for them to thaw before using them.
How Long Do Bell Peppers Last?
Let’s start with fresh whole green peppers. These last for 2-3 weeks in the fridge. Whole red, orange, and yellow peppers last between 1-2 weeks in the fridge.
If you have cut up your bell peppers, they will last 1-3 days in the fridge.
Freezing your peppers of any color is the best option for long-term storage, as they can last 4-6 months.
The Health Benefits of Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are packed with nutrition. In general, bell peppers contain vitamins A, B6, K1, E, potassium, and folate. In particular, red bell peppers are one of the most significant sources of vitamin C, as well as being high in pro-vitamin A, which your body converts into vitamin A.
Bell peppers can also aid in eye health and anemia prevention. All the more reason to include them in your diet.
The Bottom Line On Bell Peppers
Bell peppers belong to the capsicum family and are related to chili peppers. In fact, peppers can be dried and made into paprika with added ingredients.
It’s important to keep an eye on your peppers in case they show signs of spoiling. Overall, bell peppers can last 2-3 weeks if they are green and 1-2 weeks for any other color. Fortunately, freezing your bell peppers means you can hold onto them for 4-6 months.
