Quick Answer
Homemade Caesar salad dressing can be kept refrigerated for 3-5 days. The shelf life depends on the ingredients used, but properly stored dressing made with fresh ingredients will generally last for up to 1 week in the fridge.
How Long Does Homemade Caesar Salad Dressing Last Refrigerated?
The shelf life of homemade Caesar salad dressing depends on several factors:
Ingredients Used
– Eggs: Raw eggs have a shorter shelf life than pasteurized eggs. Dressing made with raw eggs should be consumed within 3-5 days.
– Oil: Oils high in polyunsaturated fats like canola oil spoil faster than oils like olive oil. Refrigerated olive oil-based dressing can last 5-7 days.
– Garlic: The more garlic is used, the shorter the shelf life since garlic contains antimicrobial compounds. Dressing with a lot of garlic may only last 3-4 days.
– Acid ingredients: Ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, mustard and Worcestershire sauce are acids that help preserve the dressing. More acidity = longer shelf life.
– Preservatives: Adding a small amount of preservatives like potassium sorbate can extend the fridge life.
Storage Method
– Air-tight container: Storing dressing in an airtight container like a mason jar removes air exposure and keeps dressing fresh longer.
– Consistent temperature: Fluctuating fridge temps shorten shelf life. Storing at a steady 35-40°F maximizes freshness.
– Sanitation: Clean utensils and containers prevent bacteria growth.
– Container size: Storing dressing in smaller containers once opened helps minimize air exposure.
Visual & Textural Signs of Spoilage
– Separation: If the oil separates from the other ingredients, toss the dressing.
– Mold growth: Any fuzzy mold spots mean the dressing must be discarded.
– Discoloration: Yellowing, darkening or graying of the dressing indicates spoilage.
– Sliminess: A slippery, slimy texture or sheen on the surface signals excess bacterial growth.
– Rancid smell: If the dressing gives off a sour, unpleasant or rotten odor, it has spoiled.
Maximizing Refrigerator Shelf Life
Follow these tips to extend the shelf life of homemade Caesar dressing as long as possible:
– Use pasteurized eggs or egg substitutes like Just Egg
– Opt for oils higher in monounsaturated fats like olive oil
– Add acid ingredients like lemon juice or red wine vinegar
– Use dry mustard powder instead of prepared mustard
– Mix in a small amount of preservatives like lemon juice or white vinegar
– Store dressing in airtight glass jars or containers
– Keep refrigerator temperature at 35°F or below
– Never return spoon used for sampling back into the container
– Fill containers to the top to minimize air exposure
– Use clean utensils and containers when making and storing dressing
Does Homemade Caesar Dressing Freeze Well?
Yes, homemade Caesar dressing can be frozen successfully to extend its shelf life even longer. To freeze:
– Store dressing in air-tight freezer containers or bags
– Leave 1⁄2 inch headspace to allow for expansion
– Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn
– Label container with contents and freeze-by date
– Freeze for up to 3 months at 0°F or below
To thaw:
– Thaw dressing overnight in the refrigerator
– Use within 3-5 days
– Avoid refreezing thawed dressing
Shelf Life of Store-Bought Caesar Dressing
The shelf life of store-bought Caesar salad dressing depends on the type:
| Caesar Dressing Type | Refrigerator | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Shelf-stable, unopened | Up to 1 year | 1-2 years |
| Refrigerated, unopened | 3-4 weeks | 2-3 months |
| Opened | 7-10 days | 1-2 months |
For maximum freshness, store unopened Caesar dressing bottles in the refrigerator and keep opened bottles refrigerated in a sealed container. Discard if dressing develops an off odor, flavor or appearance.
How to Tell if Caesar Dressing is Bad
Here are tips for telling if Caesar dressing has gone bad:
– Check expiration or use-by date on packaging
– Observe texture – should be smooth and creamy, not separated or curdled
– Look for mold growth, sliminess or discoloration
– Smell for rancid, sour or rotten odors
– Taste for unpleasant flavors – dressing should taste fresh
– Note changes in consistency – spoiled dressing may be thicker or clumpy
– Check for fizzing, bubbling or spurting when bottle is opened
FAQs
Can I make my own Caesar dressing from scratch?
Yes, it’s easy to make homemade Caesar dressing. Basic ingredients include olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan cheese and salt and pepper. Raw or pasteurized egg yolks can be added for a creamy emulsion.
What is the best way to store leftover Caesar dressing?
For optimal freshness, transfer leftover Caesar dressing to an airtight container like a mason jar or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure the container is clean. Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
How can I use up Caesar dressing before it goes bad?
If you have leftover Caesar dressing approaching the expiration date, use it up on salads, as a sandwich spread, for veggie dipping, or as a marinade or sauce for chicken, fish or steak. It also livens up wraps or tacos.
Can I eat Caesar dressing that has curdled?
No, curdled Caesar dressing that has separated should be discarded. The curdling indicates the dressing has spoiled from excessive bacterial growth. Do not consume curdled dressing.
Conclusion
The shelf life of homemade Caesar salad dressing stored in the refrigerator is 3-7 days. Follow proper sanitation, storage and handling to maximize freshness. Signs of spoiled, inedible dressing include separation, off-smells, mold, slime and curdling. For longer shelf life, freeze dressing for up to 3 months. Discard commercial Caesar dressing after expiration date or if quality declines. With proper storage and handling, Caesar dressing can be kept optimally fresh and safe to eat.