Does salsa go bad if left out overnight?

It depends on what kind of salsa you're talking about! Here's a breakdown:

Homemade Salsa:

* Generally yes. Homemade salsa, especially if it contains fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, can go bad quickly at room temperature.

* Bacteria can grow rapidly in the warm environment. The acidity in tomatoes and citrus helps to slow down the process, but it's still not safe to leave it out overnight.

* Signs of spoilage: You might see mold, changes in texture, or an off smell.

Store-bought Salsa:

* It depends on the ingredients and preservatives. Some store-bought salsas have a longer shelf life due to added preservatives and acidity.

* Check the label: Always check the label for instructions on storage and best-by dates.

* General rule: It's still best to refrigerate store-bought salsa after opening, even if it says it can be left out at room temperature.

In general, it's safer to err on the side of caution and refrigerate salsa after opening.

Here are some additional tips:

* Refrigerate salsa within 2 hours of opening. This is a general guideline for food safety.

* Use airtight containers. This will help to prevent the salsa from absorbing other flavors in your fridge.

* Avoid leaving salsa out for extended periods, even if it's in a sealed container.

Enjoy your salsa!