Fun Ways to Preserve Your Garden Haul

Your garden is overflowing. Tomatoes are piling up, cucumbers are multiplying overnight and herbs are taking over every sunny corner. It’s the ultimate summer dream until you realize you can’t possibly eat it all before it goes from fresh to forgotten.

But don’t worry! With a few quick preserving tips, you can capture that garden magic and enjoy it long after summer fades. Grab your baskets and let’s get started.

Herb-ify Your Freezer

When life gives you too much basil, make frozen herb cubes.

Chop up your favorite herbs, pop them into ice cube trays and fill with olive oil or melted butter. Freeze, then transfer to a bag or container. Toss them into soups, pasta sauces or sautéed veggies for a fresh garden boost in the middle of winter.

Roast and Freeze Tomatoes

Too many tomatoes? Lucky you.

Halve or quarter them, toss with olive oil, garlic, salt and herbs, then roast until caramelized and sweet. Let them cool and freeze in containers or freezer bags. Perfect for cozy sauces and stews when the weather turns chilly.

Quick Pickle Party

Pickling isn’t just for cucumbers! Try using carrots, radishes, peppers or green beans.

Whisk together equal parts vinegar and water, add sugar, salt and your favorite spices. Pack veggies into jars, pour in the brine and let them chill in the fridge. Crunchy, tangy snacks ready in 24 hours.

Berry Good Freezer Jams

Don’t let those sweet berries go to waste.

Mash them lightly, stir in sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice, then simmer until thick. Spoon into jars and freeze. Spread on toast, swirl into yogurt or eat by the spoonful.

Blanch and Bag Greens

Kale, spinach and chard often come in garden-sized mountains.

Blanch in boiling water for a couple of minutes, dunk in an ice bath, drain well and pack into freezer bags. Perfect for smoothies, soups and sneaky veggie boosts in pasta dishes.

Make Summer Last a Little Longer

Want to learn more ways to stretch your harvest? Book a private class at Chef Aarika’s Kitchen and discover creative ways to celebrate every bite, all year long.