ShelfLife
How long do artichokes last?
Whole fresh artichokes keep 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge from the day you buy them, but only 1 to 2 days at room temperature. Cooked artichokes keep 3 to 4 days in the fridge. The USDA doesn't recommend freezing whole raw artichokes.
| Food | Fridge | Freezer | Pantry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole artichokes | 1–2 weeksfrom purchase | Not recommended | 1–2 daysfrom purchase |
Fridge at 4 °C (40 °F) or colder, freezer at −18 °C (0 °F). Freezer times are for best quality: food kept frozen stays safe, but slowly loses taste and texture. These times are USDA guidance, not a guarantee. When in doubt, throw it out.
How to tell if artichokes have gone bad
- Leaves that are dry, splayed open and brittle, or very soft.
- Black or dark brown, slimy patches, or mold.
- A sour or musty smell. Some light brown spots on the outer leaves from frost are harmless.
How to store artichokes
- Sprinkle the artichokes with a little water and keep them in a sealed bag in the fridge.
- Don't trim them until you cook them.
- Rub cut surfaces with lemon to stop browning.
Can you freeze artichokes?
Not whole and raw. Trim them to the hearts, blanch them in water with lemon juice, cool and freeze them; or cook them first. Frozen artichoke hearts are best in dips, pasta and gratins.
Questions
How long do cooked artichokes last?
3 to 4 days in the fridge, in a sealed container.
How long do marinated artichoke hearts last?
Unopened jars keep in the pantry until their date; once opened, keep them covered in their oil or brine in the fridge.
How do you know if an artichoke is fresh?
It feels heavy, the leaves are tight and squeak when pressed together, and the stem end looks moist.
Add artichokes to ShelfLife and cook them while they're fresh.
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Storage times: USDA FoodKeeper (Food Safety and Inspection Service), public domain. Text by ShelfLife.