Innovative ways to repurpose your produce leftovers
From kitchen scraps to treasures
Story by Sheila Paz
Before you toss your kitchen scraps into the trash, consider this: those peels, stems and leaves could have a remarkable second act. In a world striving for sustainability, the seemingly unwanted parts of your produce offer a treasure trove of unconventional uses.
Carrot top pesto
Don’t discard those vibrant carrot tops. Their parsley-like flavor, with subtle carrot undertones and a hint of bitterness, is ideal for an inventive take on pesto. Blanching them with garlic and a squeeze of lemon neutralizes the bitterness, while their rich vitamin A, C, and K content boosts your nutrient intake. Simply integrate a cup of carrot tops into your favorite pesto recipe for an ingenious, delicious twist.
Make black gold
Composting transforms your food waste into nutrient-rich soil, dubbed “black gold” by farmers, providing an enriching medium for your garden. By balancing carbon-rich “browns” and nitrogen-rich “greens,” you create a compost mix that decomposes into fertile soil, enriching your garden while reducing kitchen waste.
Broc your world
Transform broccoli and cauliflower stems into a grain-free rice alternative. Pulse the stems in a food processor until they resemble rice grains, then sauté to perfection. This not only reduces waste but also adds a nutritious and creative twist to your meals.
Crispy delights: Roasted potato skins
Turn potato skins into a crunchy, savory snack. Wash and season them, then roast to achieve a golden, crispy treat. This not only minimizes waste but also provides a delicious, healthier alternative to store-bought chips.
Eco-friendly cleaning
Harness the power of citrus peels to create a natural, effective household cleanser. Infuse white vinegar with leftover peels for a potent cleaning solution that tackles grime and refreshes your home.
Natural nail care
Brighten and whiten your nails naturally with lemon peels. Soaking your nails in lemon-infused water, followed by gently rubbing them with the peel, can enhance their appearance without harsh chemicals, offering a simple, natural beauty hack.
Homemade dyes
Create all-natural dyes with beet trimmings, red cabbage or yellow onion skins. Whether it’s crafting vibrant textiles or coloring foods, these homemade dyes are an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic colors. Follow simple simmering processes to extract rich colors from these scraps, offering both a sustainable and creative solution to repurpose your leftovers.
Soup’s on
Vegetable scraps, such as carrot tops, onion skins and herb stems, are ideal for making flavorful homemade broths and stocks. Instead of throwing them away, collect these scraps in a freezer bag until you have enough to simmer into a delicious base for soups, stews and risottos.
Waste not, feed lots
Some produce waste, such as leftover grains or wilted greens, can be repurposed as nutritious feed for backyard chickens, rabbits or composting worms. This not only diverts waste from landfills but also provides a sustainable source of food for animals. Just be sure to research which scraps are safe and appropriate for your specific animals.
Grow your own
Did you know that some produce scraps can be regrown into new plants? For example, the bottoms of celery or lettuce heads can be placed in water to encourage regrowth of new leaves. Similarly, avocado pits can sprout into avocado trees, given the right conditions. It’s a fun and sustainable way to extend the life of your produce and even enjoy homegrown fruits and vegetables.
