Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Garden Salad expire?
A garden salad can be stored in your refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days if it's made from fresh vegetables and has no dressing added to it. If you've dressed your salad or if it contains ingredients like meat, cheese or eggs, it's best to eat it within 24 hours. When it comes to store-bought packaged garden salads, it's always best to consume by the 'best before' or 'use by' date indicated on the packaging. If you decide to freeze your garden salad, cooked veggies can last up to 12 months but the texture may significantly change upon defrosting.
How do you tell if Garden Salad is bad?
Smell is your first line of defense. A garden salad that has gone bad will give off an unpleasant odor. Color can also be a clue: lettuce or vegetables that have turned a slimy green or brown color have likely spoiled. If you notice any visible mold, you should discard the entire garden salad. Similarly, if your salad has been left out at room temperature for over two hours, it's best to throw it away as it may have developed harmful bacteria.
Tips for storing Garden Salad to extend shelf life
• Always store your prepared garden salad in your refrigerator and aim for temperatures below 40°F to maintain freshness.
• Don't wash your leafy greens or veggies until you're ready to prepare the salad. This will keep them crisp for longer.
• Keep your salad veggies separate from meats or dairy products in the fridge to avoid cross-contamination.
• If you've dressed your salad, try to consume it within the same day. Dressings, especially the ones containing dairy, can decrease the shelf life of your salad.
• To revive a wilted lettuce, soak it in ice water for a few minutes and then dry it thoroughly.