How to Store Tomatillos
Tomatillos keep longer than ripe tomatoes if their papery husks stay on and the fruit stays dry. They like cool storage, but not prolonged warm counter storage.
Best storage conditions
Store at about 45 to 50 F with high humidity, around 85 to 90 percent, in the dark. In most homes, a refrigerator is fine for short to moderate storage.
How long it keeps
Tomatillos often keep 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator, sometimes longer if firm and husks are intact. At room temperature, they usually last only several days.
Storage methods
Leave the husks on until use and store the fruit dry in a paper bag or perforated bag. Do not wash until ready to use. Avoid airtight containers with trapped moisture.
Freezing & preserving
Tomatillos freeze well whole or as sauce. They can also be canned as salsa, sauce, or pickles, but use tested USDA or NCHFP recipes because acidity varies by recipe.
Tips
Discard cracked or sticky-soft fruit first. Store away from ethylene-heavy fruit if you want slower ripening.
General home-storage guidance. For home canning and preserving safety, follow USDA and National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) guidelines. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.