Should dressing be covered or uncovered when cooking?

It's generally best to keep dressings covered when cooking, especially if they contain:

* Dairy products: Dairy can spoil quickly, especially when exposed to heat.

* Eggs: Raw eggs in dressings can carry bacteria like Salmonella, and exposure to heat can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

* Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is made with eggs and oil, making it susceptible to spoiling at higher temperatures.

Why cover dressings?

* Prevent contamination: Covering helps prevent foodborne bacteria from contaminating the dressing.

* Preserve freshness: Exposure to air and heat can cause dressings to separate, oxidize, and lose flavor.

* Maintain consistency: Covering keeps the ingredients mixed evenly and prevents separation.

Exceptions:

* Simple vinaigrette: A basic vinaigrette with oil and vinegar might be fine uncovered for short periods.

* Cooking in small quantities: If you're using the dressing immediately and in small quantities, leaving it uncovered might be acceptable.

In general, it's always safer to err on the side of caution and cover your dressings, especially when cooking at higher temperatures.