The present invention provides for a method for recovering microorganisms from a sample that is rapid and provides microorganisms substantially free of adsorbents and other particles. The method includes mixing a sample comprising a medium, an adsorbent and microorganisms with a first solution in a first vessel; separating the adsorbent from the medium and the microorganisms and removing the microorganisms and a portion of the medium from the first vessel; mixing the microorganisms and the portion of the medium with a second solution in a second vessel to resuspend the microorganisms; and separating the microorganisms from the resulting mixture.