Savor The Flavor Of Summer

Many gardeners have an overflowing harvest this time of year. While it’s wonderful to enjoy all of this just-picked produce now, sometimes inspiration is needed to prepare fruits and veggies in new ways. It’s also easy to freeze or can produce to enjoy during the long winter months when growing your own fresh produce is much more difficult.

Whether you are blessed with your own garden bounty, have a generous neighbor, or want to stock up at the Farmer’s Market, here are some great tips to use fruits and vegetables in different ways now so you can preserve the taste of summer all winter long.

Apples – Although apples are primarily abundant in the fall, we couldn’t resist sharing these five ideas for apples, including dehydrating and making applesauce.

Cucumbers – Try your hand at making pickles! You can also use this method for pickling green beans, garlic scapes and carrots for a fun twist to your favorite garden staples.

Pears – This fresh pear cake will fill your home with the wonderful smells of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Potatoes – Hasselback potatoes are simple to make, yet elegant enough to serve company.

Pumpkins – Whip up this pumpkin chili in just 20 minutes, and then freeze for a quick meal later.

Raspberries – Frozen raspberries can be used for smoothies, baking, and sauces.

Rhubarb – This rhubarb jam recipe has the consistency of apple butter.

Strawberries – Strawberry oatmeal bars make a quick breakfast or after-school snack.

Sweet Potatoes – Enjoy sweet potatoes for breakfast, lunch or dinner with this sweet potato kale frittata.

Sweet Corn – Use your frozen corn throughout the year in soups or as a side dish.

Tomatoes – A short list of ingredients, but tons of flavor, this salsa makes a great hostess gift!

Zucchini – Get in on the “spiralizing” craze with zucchini noodles.

What are your secrets to savoring the flavor of summer? We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments section below.