Buzz
Grapes, small yet nutritious, are our go-to snack at any time of the day. Wondering if you can freeze them? The answer is yes, and you definitely should!
By freezing grapes, you can keep them fresh for as long as a year, though we bet they won’t last that long once you taste how amazing they are frozen. Read on to learn how to freeze and defrost grapes, along with some delicious ways to enjoy them!
Carmen Troesser/Getty ImagesDo Frozen Grapes Retain the Same Nutritional Value?
Great news! Frozen grapes maintain the same nutritional benefits, and in some cases, they may even have slightly more nutrients than fresh grapes. This happens because freezing produce right after harvesting helps preserve its nutrients.
Moreover, research comparing vitamin retention between fresh and frozen fruits shows that frozen fruits generally match or even exceed the vitamin content of fresh ones. Bottom line: Freezing grapes won't cause you to lose the benefits of eating grapes.
How to Freeze Grapes
Freezing grapes is the perfect way to extend their freshness. Plus, you can enjoy the sweet, chilled grapes directly from the freezer as a cool and refreshing treat.
- Rinse and dry the grapes.
- Arrange the cleaned grapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap, and place in the freezer.
- Freeze the grapes on the baking sheet for about 2-3 hours or until they are completely frozen.
- Transfer the frozen grapes into an airtight food storage container, such as a plastic freezer bag, and return them to the freezer. When frozen this way, grapes can stay fresh for up to a year.
How to Defrost Frozen Grapes
After freezing and thawing, grapes lose their fresh, crunchy, juicy texture. However, they remain perfect for recipes like jams, smoothies, and similar dishes. To thaw grapes, simply move them from the freezer to the fridge the night before you plan to use them.
How to Enjoy Frozen Grapes
When it comes to enjoying frozen grapes, the simplest and arguably best option is to eat them as they are! Frozen grapes are incredibly tasty when popped straight into your mouth from the freezer.
If you're looking to try something different, here are a few fun ways to enjoy frozen grapes:
- Frozen grapes make a great addition to a spinach, grape, and coconut smoothie.
- Use them as a chilling ice alternative in cocktails or other cold beverages, like a Bekaa Highball. They'll not only keep your drink cool but also serve as a tasty snack between sips.
- Frozen grapes can bring a touch of sweetness to savory dishes, like roasted cauliflower.
- Blend frozen grapes into a cool green gazpacho, mixing them with honeydew and cucumber for a refreshing twist.
- Create a delicious compote or jam with frozen grapes and other fruits, perfect for spreading on your morning toast.
- For a fun treat, make a grape slushie by blending frozen grapes with coconut water, grape juice, or a splash of lime or lemon juice.
