Expiration & Storage Tips
When does Mediterranean Salad expire?
Mediterranean Salad, whether from a store or homemade, generally lasts about 3-5 days if refrigerated properly. It doesn't freeze well due to the fresh vegetables in the salad, so freezing is not recommended. You can typically go by the 'use by' date on a store-bought salad, but with homemade versions always try to consume within 5 days.
How do you tell if Mediterranean Salad is bad?
The biggest tell-tale sign that a Mediterranean Salad has gone bad is a change in smell and color. Fresh vegetables will start to smell sour or musty when they are no longer good. The lettuce may turn a darker green and become limp. Tomatoes can become mushy and other ingredients like cucumbers, peppers or onions may develop a slimy coating. If you see any of these signs or there's a strange smell, it's best to toss the salad.
Tips for storing Mediterranean Salad to extend shelf life
• Store the salad in airtight containers. This preserves freshness and prevents odors in the fridge.
• If you're making a homemade salad, try to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat it. The dressing can make the salad wilt faster.
• Keep your fridge's temperature at or below 40°F. This slows bacteria growth.
• Don't leave the salad out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the room is above 90°F, don't leave it out for more than 1 hour.