Parsnips are versatile root vegetables that add a hearty touch to many dishes, making them a true seasonal staple during Christmas.

However, proper storage is essential to keeping their signature freshness and rich flavour intact when buying them ahead for Christmas dinner.

When kept in the right conditions, parsnips can last much longer, ensuring they remain at their best for your festive meals.

Vlatka Lake, a storage expert at self-storage provider Space Station, shared her top tip to help you keep parsnips at their best throughout the colder months.

“The key to storing parsnips is to keep them dry,” Vlatka exclusively told Express.co.uk.

While it's tempting to rinse vegetables before storing them, she warns that excess moisture can actually harm your produce.

"Moisture encourages mould and spoilage," the expert explained, which can quickly ruin the taste and texture of your parsnips.

Instead, she recommends lightly brushing off any dirt or soil and wrapping the parsnips loosely in dry paper towels or kitchen roll before placing them in a plastic bag or airtight container.

For short-term storage, Vlatka suggests placing your wrapped parsnips in a drawer in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks.

For longer-term storage, choose a cool, dark place such as a root cellar, basement, or garage.

“When stored this way, your parsnips can stay fresh and tasty for up to six months,” she advises.

However, Vlatka cautions against freezing parsnips, as the cold can negatively affect both their texture and flavour, leading to disappointment when you reach for them later.

By following these expert tips, you can ensure your parsnips stay as fresh and delicious as possible, making them a star ingredient in all your winter dishes.

Whether you're preparing a hearty roast or a warming soup, properly stored parsnips will add that perfect touch of comfort to your meals.