Cooked Vegetables: How Long Do They Last in the Refrigerator?
Cooked vegetables offer so much flavor and nutritional value that they can quickly become staple components of any meal. But how long can you keep cooked vegetables in the refrigerator?
How Long Do Cooked Vegetables Last?
Cooked vegetables can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to seven days, when sealed and stored properly.
Tips to Keep Your Cooked Vegetables Fresh
- Let your vegetables cool before storing them. Cooked vegetables should cool to room temperature or below before sealing and storing in the refrigerator to limit the growth of bacteria.
- Use an air-tight container. Tightly seal any container you are using to store cooked vegetables. This will keep oxygen out, extend the lifespan of the vegetables, and prevent bacteria growth.
- Label and date your vegetables. Once your vegetables are cooled and sealed, label the container with the date you cooked them, and store at the back of the refrigerator. This will help ensure you are eating the freshest cooked vegetables and not overstocking your fridge.
Signs That Your Cooked Vegetables Have Spoiled
Discard cooked vegetables if they smell bad, have changed color, or if the texture is not the same as when they were cooked. Once cooked vegetables turn mushy, slimy, or start to mold, discard them.
When In Doubt, Throw it Out
Storing cooked vegetables properly and following the guidelines above can help ensure their longevity, but when in doubt, throw it out. It is better to be safe than sorry and always discard old or questionable cooked vegetables.
