According to food experts, you probably do.
But if you’re making it ahead of time or have leftovers, how should you store it?
Olive oil and vinegar, the two main ingredients, don’t need to be refrigerated.
Photographer: Brie Passano, Food Stylist: Sammy Mila, Prop Stylist: Holly Raibikis
Plus oil solidifies in the fridge, and no one wants a chunky vinaigrette.
So does it need to be refrigerated?
We chatted with two experts to get to the bottom of this culinary conundrum.
Why Don’t We Refrigerate Oil and Vinegar?
Oli and vinegar are two products that can be safely stored at room temperature.
As a result of this, she notes that vinegar has “an almost indefinite shelf life.”
It is not a purchase or safety date," she says.
Unlike vinegar, cooking oils cannot be stored indefinitely.
So Then Does Homemade Vinaigrette Need to Be Refrigerated?
In general, it’s a good idea to refrigerate homemade vinaigrettes.
The best way to prevent these spores from growing is refrigeration.
When you take your homemade vinaigrette out of the fridge, you may find that the mixture has separated.
Does Store-Bought Vinaigrette Need to Be Refrigerated?
Ziata notes that doing this will help the dressing last longer and taste better.
Sims recommends following the instructions on the product label.
“These instructions can save you frombotulismexposure and prevent serious illness,” she says.
