LEFTOVER REMIX - CREATIVE WAYS TO USE KITCHEN SCRAPS
Every time you throw away kitchen scraps, you're not just wasting food, you're wasting money and contributing to environmental waste. But fear not! There are countless creative ways to give those scraps a new lease on life. From turning vegetable peels into flavorful broth to transforming stale bread into delicious croutons, here are some inventive ideas to help you reduce waste and make the most out of your leftovers.
1. Vegetable Scrap Broth
Don't toss those vegetable peels and ends—turn them into a rich and flavorful broth instead! Simply collect scraps like carrot tops, onion skins, celery leaves, and garlic peels in a freezer bag until you have enough to make a batch of broth. Boil the scraps with water, herbs, and seasonings for an aromatic broth that's perfect for soups, stews, and sauces.
2. Stale Bread Croutons
Stale bread may not be great for sandwiches, but it's perfect for making croutons! Cut stale bread into cubes, toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, and your favorite herbs, then bake until crispy. These homemade croutons add a crunchy texture to salads and soups, and they're a delicious way to repurpose bread that would otherwise go to waste.
3. Citrus Peel Cleaner
Before you toss those citrus peels in the trash, consider using them to make a natural cleaner instead. Simply place citrus peels in a jar, cover them with white vinegar, and let them steep for a few weeks. Strain the mixture and transfer it to a spray bottle for an all-purpose cleaner that smells great and works wonders on countertops, sinks, and more.
4. Herb-infused Oils
If you have leftover herbs that are starting to wilt, don't let them go to waste—infuse them into oil instead! Simply place herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil in a jar and cover them with olive oil. Let the mixture sit for a week or two to allow the flavors to meld, then strain out the herbs and use the infused oil for cooking or as a flavorful finishing oil for salads and vegetables.
5. Veggie Scrap Chips
Turn vegetable scraps like kale stems, potato peels, and carrot tops into crunchy snacks with this simple recipe. Toss the scraps with olive oil and seasonings, then spread them out on a baking sheet and bake until crispy. These homemade veggie chips are a healthy and delicious way to use up leftover scraps and satisfy your snack cravings.
With a little creativity and ingenuity, you can turn kitchen scraps into delicious meals, snacks, and household essentials. By repurposing leftovers and reducing waste, you'll not only save money but also help minimize your environmental impact. So the next time you're tempted to toss those scraps in the trash, think again—there's always a creative way to give them a new life!
