Fresh greens, salads and vegetables from the garden are the basis of a vitamin-rich diet. However, before you add them to a salad or smoothie, you need to do a thorough cleaning. Simply rinsing under the tap is not enough. The fact is that sand and soil are often hidden in the leaves, and on store-bought vegetables you can find an invisible waxy coating, which is applied to preserve their presentability. Here are proven ways to ensure your greens are clean and safe.
Leafy greens such as parsley, dill, lettuce or spinach require special care. Start by removing visible damaged leaves and thick stems. Next, soak the greens in a large bowl filled with cool water for at least ten to fifteen minutes. During this time, all the sand and soil will have time to settle to the bottom. It is important not to shake the water, but to carefully remove the bunches. The next step is treatment with soda solution. Prepare it at the rate of one tablespoon of baking soda per liter of water and soak the greens in it for five minutes. This step helps neutralize possible chemical processing residues. Complete the process by thoroughly rinsing under a strong stream of running water to completely remove both the baking soda and any loosened dirt.
Vegetables with smooth skin, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers or apples, require their own technique. First, rinse them under warm water using a soft vegetable brush or a new toothbrush. This will mechanically remove the main plaque. To dissolve wax and fat-soluble substances, use a solution based on apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Mix one part vinegar or juice with three parts water. Wipe the vegetables with a sponge soaked in this solution, or soak them briefly for two to three minutes. After this, be sure to rinse off any remaining vinegar with plenty of running water. For maximum effect, especially with tomatoes and peppers, you can scald them with boiling water for a minute and then remove the skins.
By following these simple but effective steps, you will turn potential sources of germs and chemicals into truly safe and healthy products. As a result, your salads will be crunchy solely from freshness, and their taste will become pure and natural.
