I cook them all, then freeze. When you remove the sausage from the freezer always remove the package material and let sit uncovered in the frig to thaw for a day or 2, this will help keep the sausage dry. After a couple days uncovered roll in paper and enjoy. I like my summer sausage and salami to be refrigerated about 3 weeks wrapped in paper. Keep in mind I always make myne with a 50/50 mix of venison and pork.