Whether you're hosting a party or simply making your snack time a little brighter, dips and spreads are a must-have. But how do you keep them fresh once opened? And how long should they actually last after you've opened them? Here’s a guide on how to store ten popular dips and spreads, along with their shelf life in the fridge.
1. Hummus 🤎
- Storage Tip: Make sure your container is air tight! It's a no-no to save any dip out in the open air of the fridge.
Extra: Top your hummus with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent drying out. - Shelf Life: Hummus can last up to 7 days in the fridge. If it starts to smell sour or develops a watery layer, it’s time to discard it.
2. Greek Yogurt-Based Dips 💚🤍
- Storage Tip: Keep these dips in their original container or transfer to a tightly sealed one. Avoid double-dipping to prevent bacterial growth.
- Shelf Life: Yogurt-based dips typically last for 5-7 days. Any separation of liquid is normal; just stir before using.
3. Condiments (Ketchup, Mustard, Mayo) ❤️💛🤍
- Storage Tip: Store condiments in their original containers with the lids tightly closed. For homemade versions, use airtight jars.
- Shelf Life: Most store-bought condiments last 1-2 months or more in the fridge after opening. Homemade versions last up to 2 weeks.
4. Jelly, Jam, and Preserves 💜💗❤️
- Storage Tip: Always use clean utensils (aka avoid using that the same knife from the peanut butter!) when serving to avoid contamination, and store in the original jar with a tight seal.
- Shelf Life: These spreads can last up to 6 months in the fridge, though the texture may change slightly over time.
(This is a little outside of LightTag's capability to track time-- so best to save them for anything under a few weeks of tracking)
5. Cream Cheese-Based Dips 🤍
- Storage Tip: Store cream cheese-based dips in an airtight container.
If you've opened a block of cream cheese, avoid putting back in the box it came in and opt for a reusable bag like this one
Extra tip: Cover the cream cheese with plastic wrap directly on the surface to help prevent drying out. - Shelf Life: These dips last about 5-7 days in the fridge. If you notice any mold or sour smell, it’s time to toss it.
6. Vinegar-Based Sauces (e.g., Hot Sauce, Vinaigrettes) ❤️🧡🤍
- Storage Tip: Keep these sauces in their original bottles with caps tightly closed. No need for airtight containers; vinegar acts as a preservative.
- Shelf Life: Vinegar-based sauces can last up to 6 months or more. Check for any changes in smell or color to ensure freshness.
7. Pesto 💚
- Storage Tip: Store pesto in an airtight container, and cover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil--this will keep your pesto looking and tasting fresh.
- Shelf Life: Pesto can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Did you know? Pesto freezes well-- so can be frozen in small portions and thawed for later.
8. Chimichurri 💚💛
- Storage Tip: Like pesto, chimichurri should be stored in an airtight container with a layer of olive oil on top.
- Shelf Life: Chimichurri stays fresh for about 5 days in the fridge.
Did you know? Chimihurri freezes well and can extend its life for up to 3 months.
9. Sour Cream-Based Dips 🤍
- Storage Tip: Keep these dips in the original container or transfer to a tightly sealed one. Stir before each use to maintain the proper consistency of your dip.
- Shelf Life: Sour cream dips last for 7-10 days in the fridge. Discard if you see mold or if anything smells off. Separation in the dip is completely normal.
10. Nut Butters (Peanut Butter, Almond Butter) 🤎🤍💛
- Storage Tip: Store in their original jars, and stir before use if they’ve separated. For natural nut butters, refrigeration is recommended.
- Shelf Life: Nut butters can last up to 3 months in the fridge, and 2-3 months in the pantry if they are stored in a cool, dark place and tightly sealed. However, if the nut butter has any added stabilizers or preservatives, it can last longer–up to 6 months in the pantry. Still, remember to watch out for any rancid smells or changes in texture.
11. Guacamole 💚
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Storage Tip: To save guacamole in the fridge, transfer it to an airtight container and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the guacamole to minimize air exposure and prevent browning.
Bonus Tip! Add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice on top can further help reduce oxidation.Shelf Life: Guacamole can last up to 2-3 days in the fridge when stored properly. However, it’s best to check for signs of browning or off smells before consuming.
The TLDR
Proper storage is key to making your favorite dips and spreads last longer. Always use clean utensils, seal containers tightly, and keep an eye on the expiration dates. With these tips, you’ll waste less and enjoy your dips and spreads for longer!