11 Foods You Had No Idea You Could Freeze

Avocados

Avocados are a popular food item known for their healthy fats, fiber, and various nutrients. People often buy them in bulk when they are in season or on sale, but may overlook the fact that they can go bad quickly if not consumed in a timely manner.

Now, freezing avocados is becoming a trend among health enthusiasts and budget shoppers. Freezing them can extend their shelf life and allow you to enjoy their nutritional benefits for longer. According to California Avocado, ripe, peeled avocados can be safely frozen and used later in smoothies, guacamole, and other recipes.

Herbs

Herbs are commonly bought fresh for their superior aroma and flavor. However, they can wilt or dry out quickly, leading many people to overlook the potential of freezing them for longer-term storage.

Freezing herbs has become a popular way to reduce waste and save money, particularly among home cooks and gardeners who grow their own herbs. The National Center for Home Food Preservation offers guidance on how to freeze herbs properly to maintain their flavor and nutritional value.

Rice

Rice is a staple food item in many homes. While it’s often bought in large quantities due to its long shelf-life, people may not realize that cooked rice can also be frozen for future use.

Freezing cooked rice is now gaining recognition as a time-saving strategy. It allows for quick meal preparation, especially for people with busy schedules. The FDA recommends cooling the rice quickly before freezing it to maintain its quality and safety.

Tomato Paste

Tomato paste is often used in small quantities to enhance the flavor of dishes. However, once opened, it can spoil if not used within a few days. This can lead to wastage, something many buyers overlook.

Freezing tomato paste has become a popular way to reduce food waste and save money. According to the National Center for Home Food Preservation, tomato paste can be frozen in small portions and used as needed.

Butter

Butter is a kitchen staple that is often bought in bulk, especially during holiday baking seasons. However, if not used quickly, it can go rancid, which many purchasers might not consider.

Freezing butter is a trend that is being embraced by more and more people. It provides a way to extend the butter’s lifespan and save money. The Dairy Council advises that butter can be frozen safely for up to six months.

Bananas

Bananas are a common fruit that people often buy in bunches. However, they can ripen quickly and become overripe if not eaten swiftly, which is often overlooked by consumers.

Freezing bananas is now gaining popularity, especially among those who enjoy smoothies, baking, and baby weaning foods. According to Chiquita, overripe bananas can be safely frozen and used in various recipes.

Eggs

Eggs are a versatile food ingredient that people usually buy in dozens. However, they have a limited shelf life and can go bad if not consumed within that period.

Freezing eggs is a trend that is becoming increasingly popular. It is a practical way to preserve their nutritional value and extend their usability. The USDA provides clear instructions on how to safely freeze eggs for later use.

Bread

Bread is a staple food item that is often bought fresh. However, it can get stale or moldy quickly if not consumed promptly, which is a fact that might be overlooked by many people.

Freezing bread has become a common practice to reduce food waste and save money. According to the Bread for the World Institute, bread can be frozen to extend its shelf life and maintain its quality.

Flour

Flour is a basic ingredient in many recipes and is often bought in large quantities. However, it can attract pests if not stored properly, which many people may not consider.

Freezing flour has become a trend among home bakers and professional chefs. It helps to maintain the quality of the flour and prevent infestation. According to the Eat By Date, flour can be safely frozen for long-term storage.

Cheese

Cheese is a popular food item that people often buy in bulk. However, it can spoil if not consumed within its expiry date, leading many to overlook the potential of freezing it for later use.

Freezing cheese is now recognized as a valuable method for preserving its taste and nutritional value. According to the Dairy Council, many types of cheese can be safely frozen and used in cooking.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a healthy snack that’s often bought in multipacks. However, once opened, it can spoil quickly if not consumed promptly, something many buyers may not consider.

Freezing yogurt is a trend that is gaining popularity, especially among those who enjoy smoothies or frozen treats. According to the Dairy Council, yogurt can be frozen and used within one to two months.