Cooked quiche can sit at room temperature for how long?

It is not safe to leave cooked quiche at room temperature for an extended period. The USDA recommends that perishable foods, including quiche, should not be left out for more than two hours at room temperature.

Here's why:

* Bacteria growth: Bacteria thrive in temperatures between 40°F and 140°F. Leaving quiche out for too long allows bacteria to multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of food poisoning.

* Spoilage: Quiche can spoil quickly at room temperature, becoming unsafe to eat.

To ensure safety:

* Refrigerate quiche within two hours of cooking.

* Reheat quiche thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

* Avoid leaving quiche out at room temperature for extended periods, especially during hot weather.

By following these guidelines, you can help prevent foodborne illness and enjoy your quiche safely.