15 Clever Ways to Repurpose Leftover Produce

Repurposing leftover produce is a smart, sustainable way to reduce food waste and make the most of every ingredient in your kitchen. With a little creativity, those scraps, peels, and overripe fruits can be transformed into flavorful additions and useful items for your meals and home. There are countless clever ways to give new life to produce that might otherwise end up in the trash. These ideas not only save money but also add freshness and flair to your cooking and household.

DIY Vegetable Stock

Leftover vegetable scraps can easily become a delicious homemade vegetable stock, perfect for soups, sauces, and more. Start by saving scraps like onion peels, carrot ends, celery leaves, and any vegetable trimmings in a freezer bag. When you’ve collected enough, simply add them to a large pot with water, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Let the mixture simmer for about an hour, then strain out the solids to reveal a rich, flavorful stock. Freeze portions in ice cube trays for easy use, ensuring you always have homemade stock ready to elevate your dishes.

Fruit-Infused Water

When fruit starts to soften, try turning it into refreshing fruit-infused water. Grab a pitcher, slice up fruits like citrus, berries, apples, or cucumbers, and add them in. Fill the pitcher with cold water and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours to let the flavors infuse. This naturally sweetened water is a healthier, waste-free alternative to store-bought flavored waters. Experiment with combinations like lemon and mint for added variety, and enjoy a flavorful hydration boost throughout the day.

Vegetable Chips

Vegetable chips are a simple and tasty way to use up extra greens and roots like kale, sweet potatoes, or beet greens. Start by slicing the vegetables thinly, tossing them with a bit of olive oil, and sprinkling them with salt. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet, then bake at a low temperature until they’re crispy and golden. These homemade veggie chips are a healthier, preservative-free snack option that can be seasoned with spices like paprika or garlic powder. They’re perfect for satisfying crunchy snack cravings while minimizing waste.

Herb Ice Cubes

If your fresh herbs are starting to wilt, try preserving them in ice cubes for easy future use. Chop the herbs and place a bit in each section of an ice cube tray, then fill with olive oil or water. Freeze until solid, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for long-term storage. These herb cubes are perfect for adding to soups, sauces, or stir-fries, making it easy to incorporate fresh flavors year-round. It’s a convenient way to reduce waste while always having herbs on hand for cooking.

Citrus Zest Powder

Citrus peels have plenty of flavor to offer and can be transformed into a tangy zest powder for cooking. Grate the zest of lemons, limes, or oranges, then spread it on a baking sheet. Dry it out in a low-temperature oven, and once dry, grind it into a fine powder. Store this zest powder in a jar, ready to add a bright, zesty flavor to desserts, marinades, or teas. This simple method not only preserves the zest’s intense flavor but also gives your dishes a fresh citrus boost.

Banana Bread or Muffins

Overripe bananas are ideal for creating banana bread or muffins that are naturally sweet and flavorful. Simply mash the bananas and mix them with flour, sugar, eggs, and baking soda to create a batter. Add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or cinnamon for extra flavor, then bake until golden. These baked treats are a delicious way to use up soft bananas, giving you a breakfast or snack option that can even be frozen for later. Plus, banana bread is a timeless classic that everyone will enjoy.

Pickle Vegetable Stems

Don’t let veggie stems go to waste; instead, pickle them for a tangy, crunchy snack. Slice stems like broccoli or Swiss chard thinly and place them in a jar with vinegar, water, salt, and spices of your choice. Let the mixture sit in the fridge for at least a day, allowing the flavors to develop fully. These pickled stems are perfect for snacking or adding to sandwiches and charcuterie boards. It’s a creative, tasty way to reduce waste and enjoy every part of your vegetables.

Homemade Applesauce

Slightly bruised or softened apples make for a perfect batch of homemade applesauce. Start by peeling, coring, and chopping the apples, then cook them down with a bit of water, sugar, and cinnamon. As they soften, mash or blend them to your desired consistency. Homemade applesauce can be stored in the fridge or frozen for long-term use, adding a healthy, naturally sweetened option for snacking or topping. This classic treat is a wonderful way to make the most of apples that might not be perfect for eating fresh.

Potato Skins as Appetizers

Potato skins can become a delicious appetizer with just a few simple steps. Start by saving the skins when you peel potatoes, ensuring they’re clean and free of blemishes. Bake them until crispy, then top with cheese, bacon bits, and sour cream for a comforting snack. Potato skins are high in fiber and nutrients, making them a healthier alternative to regular chips. This creative dish is perfect for parties or a cozy night in, making the most of a part of the potato that often goes to waste.

Berry Compote

Soft berries can easily be transformed into a sweet, homemade compote for use in various dishes. Place berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries in a pot with a little sugar and lemon juice, then cook until thickened. This compote can be stored in the fridge and enjoyed as a topping for pancakes, yogurt, or desserts. It’s a versatile way to use up berries that are too soft to eat fresh, letting you savor their fruity flavor. You can even freeze portions to enjoy during colder months when fresh berries are harder to come by.

Croutons from Bread Ends

Instead of tossing out stale bread, repurpose it into crunchy homemade croutons. Simply cube the bread, toss it with olive oil, and season with garlic, herbs, and a pinch of salt. Bake until golden and crispy, then use these croutons to add texture and flavor to salads or soups. Homemade croutons are a delicious, preservative-free alternative to store-bought ones, and they’ll keep well in an airtight container. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make sure every slice of bread gets enjoyed.

Pumpkin Puree for Baking

Extra pumpkin can be turned into a versatile puree that adds a warm, cozy flavor to a variety of recipes. Simply roast the pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth. This homemade puree can be used in pies, muffins, soups, or even smoothies, offering a seasonal taste that’s easy to enjoy year-round. Freeze portions in small bags to have on hand for whenever you’re inspired to bake. It’s a great way to capture the flavors of fall without wasting any pumpkin.

Leftover Salad Pesto

Wilted greens, such as arugula, spinach, or even carrot tops, can be blended into a delicious homemade pesto. Combine the greens with garlic, nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a blender until smooth. This fresh pesto can be used as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for veggies. It’s a versatile condiment that lets you enjoy the flavors of greens that might otherwise be wasted. This simple recipe is a perfect way to make the most of your leafy greens.

Citrus-Infused Vinegar Cleaner

Citrus peels can be transformed into an effective, fragrant household cleaner with just a bit of vinegar. Place leftover citrus peels in a jar and cover them with white vinegar, letting it sit for about two weeks. Strain the liquid, dilute with water, and pour it into a spray bottle for an all-purpose cleaner that leaves a fresh scent. This natural cleaner is eco-friendly and avoids the harsh chemicals in store-bought products. It’s a practical, sustainable way to use leftover citrus and keep your home fresh and clean.

Jam from Overripe Fruit

Overripe fruit can be turned into a sweet, homemade jam with just a few ingredients. Simply cook fruits like peaches, strawberries, or plums with sugar and a splash of lemon juice until thickened. This jam can be stored in sterilized jars, offering a fresh, flavorful alternative to store-bought versions. It’s a wonderful way to use up fruit that’s too soft for eating but still delicious when cooked. Spread it on toast, add to yogurt, or gift it to friends for a homemade touch.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

More From RetailShout

14 Famous Delis in the US That Have Stood the Test of Time

When it comes to iconic dining experiences in the US, delis hold a special place in our hearts—and our stomachs. These famed spots are known for their towering sandwiches, rich history, and the kind of food that keeps you coming back for decades. Read More.

20 Unique and Fun Home Products to Grab at Target

Target is the go-to store for finding unique and fun home products that add personality to any space. With items that bring charm and creativity, your home can feel like a true reflection of you. Read More.

18 New Trader Joe’s Arrivals You Won’t Want to Miss This November

Trader Joe’s fans know that November brings more than just cooler weather—it brings a host of exciting new arrivals to the shelves. This month, Trader Joe’s has introduced an enticing mix of seasonal flavors and globally inspired treats that promise to elevate your meals and snacks. Read More.