Homemade dressing

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Unlock the vibrant flavors of homemade salad dressings with proper storage! Whether creamy or vinaigrette-based, understanding how to keep your culinary creations fresh ensures every salad is a delight. Properly stored homemade dressings maintain their peak taste and texture.

Storage Time

Homemade dressings typically last 5–7 days in the refrigerator when stored correctly. Shelf life can vary significantly based on ingredients, especially if dairy or raw eggs are used.

Temperature

Always store homemade dressings in the refrigerator at or below 4°C (40°F) to inhibit bacterial growth and maintain freshness.

Freezing

Many homemade dressings, particularly vinaigrettes without dairy or mayonnaise, can be frozen. For best results, store in airtight containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing, and emulsified dressings might require vigorous shaking or whisking to recombine.

Signs of Spoilage

• Unpleasant or sour odor.
• Visible mold growth on the surface.
• Significant separation that cannot be re-emulsified, or a slimy texture.