How to Wash Leafy Greens

Step 1: Pick through your greens Pick through the greens and remove any yellowed, bruised, or wilted leaves.
Step 2: Fill the sink Fill your sink or a very large bowl with enough water to completely submerge the greens, about one gallon for every bunch of greens.
TIP: To get your greens their cleanest, wash only one reasonably sized bunch at a time.
Step 3: Dunk the greens Dunk your greens into the water and gently swirl them around. The dirt will sink to the bottom.
Step 4: Drain the water Lift out the greens and place them into a colander. Drain the water.
Step 5: Keep washing Fill your bowl or sink and wash the greens again. You may need to do this multiple times if your greens are very dirty.
TIP: If your greens have come into contact with pesticides or other unsavory grime, add one teaspoon of vinegar to the water to further de-funk them.
Step 6: Dry the greens Once the water remains clear, lift the greens out of bath, shake off the excess water, and dry them on paper towels.
TIP: Dry more tender greens, like salad greens, in a salad spinner before serving.
Step 7: Cook or store the greens Your greens are now squeaky clean and ready to be cooked or stored, wrapped in damp paper towels, in your vegetable drawer.
FACT: “Greenwashing” is a new word for when an organization claims it’s eco-friendly to cover up their poor environmental record.

Lessons in this Guide