Now What Do I Do?

In times past, I have not really known what to do with all the garden produce that we have grown. I remember one year not having a clue what to do with all the different varieties of peppers that Michael grew. I kept looking at them thinking they were pretty, but that thought didn't turn them into dinner. I did the next best thing. I turned them into flower arrangements and gift baskets. I also learned that one of the keys to using the garden produce is to clean it at one time if possible. I clean enough lettuce to last me a week. This saves so much time during dinner preps. If I am in a time crunch, I won't use the garden produce if it isn't convient. If I plan ahead, then I will use it.

Here is a picture of my sink full of lettuce soaking in water to be cleaned.

After I have washed and picked through it, I then use my salad spinner to dry the lettuce. I store it in large plastic containers or plastic bags. I put a paper towel in the bottom of the container and one on top of the lettuce to help soak up any moisture.

Whenever I have green peas or green beans, I make sure I break them ahead of time. I also go ahead and wash up the broccoli or cauliflower. I bag it in meal size portions in small plastic bags. Last night I was in a huge time crunch. I was able to prepare cauliflower in no time flat because all of the prep work had already been done. There is nothing more frustrating than pouring all that time, energy, and money into growing a garden and then having to feed the produce to the chickens because I let it go bad. It still happens some, but not near as often as it use to.

grace and peace,

julie