Expiration & Storage Tips
When does chickpea pasta expire?
Chickpea pasta, when unopened, has a relatively long shelf life and can easily last up to a year if stored properly in a cool, dark place like a kitchen cabinet. However, the best guideline is to follow the use-by date printed on the package. Once opened, dried chickpea pasta can last for about 1-2 years, but for the best quality, it's recommended to consume them within 1-2 weeks if stored properly. Fresh or cooked chickpea pasta, if homemade, should be consumed within two to five days when stored in the fridge. If frozen, chickpea pasta (only cooked) can last for 2-3 months for best quality, but will remain safe beyond that time.
How do you tell if chickpea pasta is bad?
With dried chickpea pasta, check for any changes in color or smell. Also, if you see bugs or bug droppings in the pasta, it's a clear sign it has gone bad. For cooked or fresh chickpea pasta, smells, change in color, or a slimy texture can indicate spoilage. Remember, when in doubt, it's always best to throw it out.
Tips for storing chickpea pasta to extend shelf life
• For unopened dried chickpea pasta, keep it in a cool, dark, and dry place like a pantry or cabinet. Make sure the storage area is free of pests.
• For opened dried pasta, consider transferring it to an airtight container to prevent the pasta from absorbing moisture and odors from other food in the storage area.
• Fresh and cooked chickpea pasta should be refrigerated in an airtight container.
• Leftover cooked pasta can be frozen for future uses. Just make sure to first let it cool down, then put it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. When ready to eat, you can defrost overnight in the fridge or cook it straight from frozen.