It is very easy to quickly accumulate a collection of pasta in your pantry.
With all the different shapes, sizes, and types of pasta out there, it’s impossible not to want to try them all! As your pantry fills up, you might start to wonder, does pasta go bad?
If you find yourself asking this question, you’ve come to the right place to find some answers. Read on to find out about shelf life, storage, and common signs of pasta going bad.
How To Tell If Your Pasta Has Gone Bad
Dried pasta can last for at least a couple of years if stored properly. But keep an eye out for some clear signs of it being spoiled.
Firstly, check the packaging for holes or tears, as this could become an entrance for small bugs and insects. If you have canned pasta, check for leaks, dents, and bulges in the packaging, as this could mean that bacteria has got into the can and spoiled the pasta.
Dried pasta is pretty hardy and shouldn’t change in appearance. So, if there is any discoloration or signs of mold or bugs, then get rid of it!
The same goes for cooked and fresh pasta. If there is a slimy texture or a funny odor, then there is a good chance that it’s time to toss it!
How To Store Dried Pasta
Dried pasta is extremely straightforward to store, and it doesn’t really go bad! You just need to make sure that it is stored in a cool, dry place away from any moisture or heat source. Preferably your pantry, but any kitchen cabinet will do. Easy!
There will be an expiration date on the packaging, but dried pasta can stay good and safe beyond this date by six months to a year.
You may want to invest in some storage containers for your pasta to ensure that no dust, pantry bugs, or moisture can get to it. However, you can also keep it in its original packaging. Just make sure to use a rubber band or a clip to keep it sealed up. This also helps to stop it from pouring all over the floor when you pick it up from the wrong end!
How To Store Cooked and Fresh Pasta
Whether you are meal prepping or you just cooked too much pasta, it is best to find a sealed, airtight container to put your pasta in before you pop it into the refrigerator. Otherwise, your pasta will go hard, and it will not be a very enjoyable meal. Make sure to allow your pasta to cool down to room temperature before putting it into the refrigerator, and a good tip is to add a little olive oil to stop it from sticking together.
So, keep cooked pasta in the refrigerator in an airtight container to ensure freshness. It should stay fresh in its container for up to 3 days. After this, just check it for those signs of spoilage like mold, slime, and smell before you tuck in.
Fresh pasta that has been homemade or store-bought must be kept in the refrigerator at all times. The rules for cooked fresh pasta are the same as above, keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for three days.
Can You Freeze Cooked Pasta?
Yes! Store your cooked pasta in freezer bags or freezer-safe containers to prolong its life for up to 2 months. Make sure that your pasta is fully defrosted before reheating or consuming.
Do not freeze dry pasta, as this will expose it to excess moisture.
