Community Engagement

Hi there green beans,

Here we are, already into March. I don’t know why but the older I get the faster the time goes; I don’t think that’s fair but what’s a gal to do.

Here are more tips. Some are from Jillee; some are mine; some are to save money; some are to save the planet.

• If you see fruit on sale, you can take advantage of the price and then freeze it. The best way to do that is to freeze them on a lined cookie sheet first for a few hours, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. They won’t stick together and you can pull out what you need when you need it. I also do this with carrots, peppers, and onions. For some reason you can just freeze celery without the cookie sheet procedure. Often, I just buy too much and I hate throwing out food!!!
• You can also roast Roma tomatoes in the oven at a low temperature (225 degrees or so) with garlic, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil for 4 to 5 hours. When cooled, transfer the tomatoes to freezer bags. Use them in chili or to make tomato sauces. I know you are using electricity but it’s much cheaper than good quality cans of tomatoes. Typically, I will try and slow bake something else at the same time.
• This one I love doing - freeze fresh herbs in ice cube trays with a little water or leftover stock. Use the frozen herb cubes in soups, stews, or casseroles when you need them.
• To freeze leafy greens like spinach, whip it up in your blender with a little bit of water and then freeze in ice cube trays. Drop a couple of cubes in your blender with frozen fruit for easy green smoothies!

You will notice in the above I am talking about using freezer bags and I do use them in a pinch but I am trying to increase my stash of silicon bags. I even saw them at the dollar store.

Have a great month everyone and remember….

Wherever you go, go with all your heart. - Confucius