Produce

How long does cauliflower last in the fridge?

3–5 days
Fridge, from purchase — USDA FoodKeeper guidance for cauliflower

Cauliflower keeps 3–5 days in the fridge — small brown freckles can be pared off a firm head, but a head that gives under your thumb is finished.

How long does it keep?

Fridge, from purchase 3–5 days
Freezer, from purchase 10–12 months

Can you freeze cauliflower? YES, FREEZE IT

Can it sit out?

Cauliflower is shelf-stable, so sitting out at room temperature isn’t the safety question — storage time is.

The 2-hour rule, in full →

How to tell if cauliflower has gone bad

  • Brown spotting spreading across the curd
  • A head that dents and stays dented when pressed
  • A strong sulfur smell in the drawer
  • Slimy leaves at the base

When in doubt, throw it out.

Store it stem-up so condensation runs off the curd instead of pooling in it.

Quick answers

How long does cauliflower last in the fridge?

Cauliflower keeps 3–5 days in the fridge — small brown freckles can be pared off a firm head, but a head that gives under your thumb is finished.

Can you freeze cauliflower?

Blanched cauliflower keeps 10–12 months and roasts straight from frozen; raw-frozen curd goes gray and sulfurous instead.

How long can cauliflower sit out?

Sitting out at room temperature isn’t the safety question for cauliflower — storage time is.