Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Ratatouille expire?
Ratatouille, a delicious French vegetable dish, is best when consumed fresh, but it can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator after it's made. If you've bought a pre-packaged ratatouille, it should be okay for about 2 days beyond the sell-by date unopened, but once opened, it should be consumed within 2-3 days. The good news is ratatouille can be frozen and should last up to 3 months in the freezer.
How do you tell if Ratatouille is bad?
Spoiled ratatouille will have a few telltale signs. Smell is a primary one; if it has a sour or generally bad smell, it's best not to eat it. Also, check the texture. If the vegetables are mushy or slimy, this is a sign that it has gone bad. Additionally, if you see any mold or other discoloration, it's time to throw it out.
Tips for storing Ratatouille to extend shelf life
• Store ratatouille in an airtight container to keep it fresh in the refrigerator.
• If freezing, cool the ratatouille completely before placing it in a freezable container. Be sure to leave some room at the top, as it may expand slightly when frozen.
• Divide ratatouille into portion-sized containers before freezing. This way, you can defrost only what you need.
• To defrost frozen ratatouille, transfer it to the refrigerator at least 24 hours before you plan to eat it. For a quicker thaw, you can also defrost it in a microwave using the defrost setting.