How to Use Up Leftover Herbs

Don’t Let Those Leftover Herbs Go to Waste

Are you tired of buying fresh herbs for your recipes and watching them wilt away in your refrigerator? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we will share some creative and delicious ways to use up leftover herbs, so you can make the most out of your pantry and reduce food waste.

1. Make Flavorful Herb Butter

One of the easiest and tastiest ways to use up leftover herbs is by making herb butter. Simply chop up your herbs and mix them into softened butter. You can experiment with different combinations like garlic and rosemary, thyme and lemon zest, or basil and oregano. Spread this flavorful butter on crusty bread, melt it over grilled meats and vegetables, or use it to sauté your favorite dishes.

2. Create Herb-infused Oils

Herb-infused oils can add a burst of flavor to your cooking. Fill a glass jar with a neutral oil like olive or grapeseed oil and add your leftover herbs. Let the mixture sit for a few days to infuse the oil with the herb’s fragrant essence. Use these oils in salad dressings, marinades, or even drizzle them over roasted vegetables for an extra kick.

3. Whip Up Herb Pesto

Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. Instead of using just one herb, blend together a variety of leftovers to create a unique and exciting flavor profile. Traditional pesto combines basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, but feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations. You can also freeze any extra pesto in ice cube trays for later use.

4. Add Herbs to Homemade Broths

Homemade broths are a fantastic way to use up leftover herbs and vegetable scraps. Instead of throwing them away, add them to a pot of simmering water along with some aromatics like onions, garlic, and celery. Let the broth steep for an hour or two, then strain it to create a flavorful base for soups, stews, and risottos.

5. Make Herb-infused Ice Cubes

Turn your leftover herbs into decorative and flavor-packed ice cubes. Simply place your herbs in an ice cube tray, fill it with water, and freeze. These herb-infused ice cubes are perfect for adding a hint of freshness to homemade lemonades, iced teas, cocktails, or even tossing them into sauces and stews for a burst of flavor.

6. Dry and Store Your Herbs

If you have a surplus of herbs, drying and storing them for future use is a great option. Bundle them together, hang them upside down in a warm and well-ventilated area, and wait for them to dry completely. Once dried, crumble the leaves and store them in airtight containers. This way, you’ll have a supply of dried herbs that you can use in your cooking throughout the year.

● Herb butter is a delicious way to use up leftover herbs
● Herb-infused oils can add flavor to your dishes
● Get creative by making herb pesto with various combinations
● Add leftover herbs to homemade broths for added flavor
● Freeze herb-infused ice cubes to enhance your drinks and dishes
● Dry and store your herbs for future use

Using up leftover herbs doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these creative ideas, you can elevate your dishes, reduce food waste, and make the most out of your pantry. So, the next time you find yourself with leftover herbs, instead of tossing them away, give these tips a try and enjoy the flavors they bring to your meals.

Share your ideas on how to make the most of your leftover herbs in the Ingredients Spotlight forum and let’s discuss creative ways to reduce food waste in the kitchen.

FAQ:

Can I freeze leftover herbs?

Yes, freezing leftover herbs is a great way to prevent waste. Simply wash and chop them, then place them in an ice cube tray with a little water or olive oil. Once frozen, transfer the herb cubes to a freezer bag or container for easy use in future recipes.

What can I do with extra cilantro?

Cilantro can be used in a variety of dishes to add a fresh and vibrant flavor. You can make a flavorful cilantro pesto by blending it with garlic, nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It can also be added to salsas, guacamole, or used as a garnish for Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos and enchiladas.

How can I use up leftover mint?

Mint is a versatile herb that can be used in both sweet and savory recipes. Blend it with yogurt, cucumber, and a hint of garlic to make a refreshing tzatziki sauce. Alternatively, use it to infuse flavor into cocktails, fruit salads, or even ice cream. You can also dry the leaves and use them to make soothing mint tea.

What should I do with excess basil?

Basil is a popular herb known for its distinct aroma and taste. One way to use up excess basil is by making a homemade basil pesto with basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This pesto can be used as a spread for sandwiches, tossed with pasta, or even used as a marinade for grilled meats or vegetables.

Any ideas for using leftover parsley?

Parsley is a versatile herb and can be used in many dishes. Mix chopped parsley with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic to make a flavorful crust for roasted chicken or fish. It can also be added to salads, soups, or used as a garnish for pasta dishes. Additionally, parsley can be blended with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic to create a zesty chimichurri sauce for grilled meats.

How can I incorporate leftover rosemary?

Rosemary has a distinct and fragrant flavor that pairs well with meats and roasted vegetables. Use leftover rosemary to make infused oils by combining it with olive oil and letting it sit for a few days. This oil can be drizzled over dishes for added flavor. Alternatively, you can use rosemary sprigs to flavor soups, stews, or even roasted potatoes.

What can I do with extra thyme?

Thyme is a versatile herb that adds depth and flavor to various recipes. Use extra thyme to make homemade herb butter by combining softened butter with chopped thyme leaves. This herb butter can be used to enhance the flavor of grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or spread onto bread. Thyme can also be used in marinades, stuffing, or added to sauces for added depth of flavor.

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How To Use Up Leftover Herbs