Works Every Time
>> Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Now that we're getting awesome produce from our CSA share every week, I've stopped shopping so predictably at the grocery store. In the winter months, I had stuck to a list that didn't change much from week to week. But with so many new veggies coming into the house, I don't always know what to do with them all.
Here are a few recipe-free ways I use up random things to make delicious and healthy dinners. General grow-pleasing meals that work like a charm every time we make them!
RAW
There's no easier way to use veggies than simply chopping, tossing, and topping. Salads, warm or cold, make great starters or full meals. Dress with olive oil and balsamic vinegar (or get more creative). Top with shredded cheeses, avocado, sunflower seeds, beans, add herbs -- really, the list is endless.
Some more specific recipes:
Works particularly well with lettuces, other greens (spinach, Swiss chard, kale, etc.), carrots, radishes, onions, scallions, garlic scapes, peppers cucumbers, and tomatoes.
ROASTED
This method works with most all vegetables. Simply preheat your oven to around 400 degrees F. Chop veggies into chunks. Drizzle with olive oil. Toss in salt and pepper. Then all you need to do is place them in the oven for 15 minutes, stir, and then continue this process until they are golden brown all over.
Some more specific recipes:
Works particularly well with onions, peppers, eggplant, garlic, squash, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, mushrooms, and potatoes.
STIR-FRIED
We most often find ourselves tossing together a variety of veggies with tofu -- or not -- and sauce. In fact, I'd say we eat a stir-fry at least twice a week. Sometimes with a simple soy sauce and other times with more elaborate flavorings. Just chop veggies, heat olive oil on the stove, cook, add sauce, and toss.
Some more specific recipes:
Works particularly well with baby bok choy, squash, broccoli, onions, mushrooms, garlic, napa cabbage, peppers, asparagus,
What's your fail-proof way to use up odds and ends? We'd love to hear your suggestions. Just leave a comment or email us at neverhomemaker [at] gmail [dot] com.
And on Writing Chapter Three, you can read Ada's 7-month update and how to choose the right caregiver for a med-free hospital birth.
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