ShelfLife
How long do leeks last?
Leeks keep 1 to 2 weeks in the fridge from the day you buy them, and 10 to 12 months in the freezer, sliced.
| Food | Fridge | Freezer |
|---|---|---|
| Leeks | 1–2 weeksfrom purchase | 10–12 monthsfrom 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 leeks have gone bad
- Slimy outer layers: peel them off; if the inside is firm, it's fine.
- Soft, mushy or yellow-brown stalks.
- A sour or rotten smell, or mold.
How to store leeks
- Keep leeks unwashed and untrimmed in a loose bag in the crisper drawer.
- Wrap them so their smell doesn't spread to other food.
- Clean them just before cooking: slice them, then rinse in a bowl of water to remove the grit between the layers.
Can you freeze leeks?
Yes, for 10 to 12 months. Slice and wash them, dry them well and freeze them in bags; blanching for a minute or two keeps the color better. Use them straight from frozen in soups, gratins and quiches.
Questions
How long do cooked leeks last?
3 to 4 days in the fridge, like other cooked vegetables.
Can you eat the green part of leeks?
Yes. The dark green tops are tougher, but great in stocks and soups.
How long does leek and potato soup last?
3 to 4 days in the fridge, and 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
Add leeks to ShelfLife and use them before they go slimy.
Related foods
Storage times: USDA FoodKeeper (Food Safety and Inspection Service), public domain. Text by ShelfLife.