Preserve the jewels of the season.

It’s crucial to take advantage of these fruits while they’re at their best.

When shopping for cherries, look for those that have bright green stems and shiny skins with bold colors.

Fresh cherries in a blue bowl.

Photo: Arkadiusz Fajer/Getty Images

The tastiest cherries should feel dense, firm, and plump with no bruising or signs of spoilage.

Cherries that appear withered, soft, or unsaturated are past their prime.

How to Store Cherries

Keep cherries cold!

Once in the fridge, cherries can last for about a week.

The juice from these cherries can get on the others, causing premature decay.

When Should You Wash Cherries?

Refrain from rinsing your cherries until right before you’re ready to cook with or eat them.

Here’s how:

Can You Freeze Cherries?

Frozen cherries are best if eaten within six months of freezing but can last up to one year.

Ready to freeze some cherries?

To defrost cherries, simply move the food storage container from the freezer to the refrigerator for several hours.