1 Store your ingredients in the correct place to extend their shelf life and preserve quality. Keep root vegetables and onions in a cool, dark place. Store leafy green vegetables, apples, and grapes in the fridge between 1-4°C (34-39°F). Bread will become dry if stored in the fridge. However, if you plan on using it just for toast, it will certainly extend its life. Opened jars are best kept in a cool, dry place.
2 Before you start cooking, consider the quantity of ingredients you really need to use. An average portion size for uncooked rice is 80-90g (2¾-3¼oz) per person, and allow 80-100g (2¾-3½oz) dried pasta per person. Cooking a larger quantity than needed of these basic ingredients can be costly and wasteful. If you intentionally cook more than needed so you can save some for another time, make sure you plan when you are going to use it up – and stick to it!