Once you crack that seal, pesto’s shelf life is not forever—but it’s also not a ticking time bomb. Generally, an opened jar of store-bought pesto will stay happy in your fridge for 5 to 7 days. Yes, that’s it—a week tops, unless you want to play a risky game of “Is that mold or just basil?” Spoiler: it’s probably mold.
Homemade pesto? Oh, that’s a whole different ballgame, and a shorter one. Fresh pesto without preservatives might only last 3 to 4 days, even in the fridge. Think of it as a delicate little diva—it needs to be consumed fast, or it’ll throw a tantrum in the form of sad, gray colors.
The Sneaky Signs of Spoilage
Your pesto won’t text you when it’s going bad, but it will give you some clues. First, sniff it—if it smells sour, funky, or like a forgotten gym sock, it’s time to say goodbye. Trust your nose; it’s smarter than you think.
Next, look at the color. Fresh pesto is a vibrant, grassy green. If it’s turning brown or dark gray, that’s oxidation—and while it won’t kill you, it’ll taste like sadness. Also, if you see any white or fuzzy spots on top, that’s mold’s way of waving hello. Toss it immediately and don’t look back.
