Whats the shelf life of Surf and Turf?
The shelf life of Surf and Turf, a dish combining seafood (surf) and meat (turf), depends on the individual components:
- Seafood: If the seafood component (such as shrimp, lobster, or fish) is fresh, it should ideally be consumed within 1 to 2 days of purchase when stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). Fresh seafood doesn’t have a long shelf life and can spoil quickly.
- Meat: The meat portion (commonly steak or filet mignon) can last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator when properly stored at the same temperature. Always check the expiration date if it’s pre-packaged or use it within a couple of days if it’s fresh from the butcher.
When preparing Surf and Turf, ensure both the seafood and meat are cooked to the recommended safe internal temperatures and handled properly to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Once cooked and assembled, the combined dish of Surf and Turf should ideally be consumed immediately for the best taste and quality. If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for a short period, typically 1 to 2 days, but it’s best to separate the surf and turf components before storing to maintain their individual textures and flavors.