The art of cooking has long been a revered tradition, with chefs and home cooks alike relying on a range of ingredients to craft delectable dishes. However, there’s another way to think about food waste – as an opportunity rather than a problem. In this article, we’ll explore 20 speedy recipes that turn commonly discarded items into delicious meals. From vegetable scraps to fruit peels, these innovative ideas will inspire you to see food in a new light.
Leftover Veggie Scramble
Revamp your leftover veggies into a delicious breakfast or brunch with this quick and easy scramble recipe. Perfect for using up those forgotten vegetables in the fridge, this dish is a great way to reduce food waste while satisfying your morning cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed leftover vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, broccoli)
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped herbs, or diced ham for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until they’re almost set.
3. Add the leftover vegetables and stir-fry until they’re tender and well combined with the eggs.
4. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Banana Peel Bacon
Transforming banana peels into crispy, savory bacon is a game-changer for any kitchen. This innovative recipe will have you wondering how you ever lived without it.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 banana peels
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sugar, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add banana peels to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the banana peels in a single layer.
5. Bake for 2-3 hours or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Stale Bread Panzanella
Panzanella is a traditional Tuscan bread salad that’s perfect for using up stale bread. This recipe adds a new twist by incorporating fresh mozzarella and basil, creating a creamy and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread, diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and chopped basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Overripe Banana Muffins
Transform those overripe bananas into a delicious batch of muffins that are moist, flavorful, and perfect for snacking or breakfast on-the-go. This simple recipe yields 12-15 muffins.
Ingredients:
– 3 large overripe bananas, mashed
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Broccoli Stem Slaw
This refreshing slaw is a great way to reduce food waste and add some crunch to your meals. Made with blanched broccoli stems, tangy dressing, and a hint of spice, this recipe is perfect for topping tacos, burgers, or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups broccoli stems (about 4-6 stems), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the broccoli stems for 30 seconds.
2. Shock the stems in an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, whisk together vinegar, oil, mustard, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the blanched broccoli stems to the dressing and toss to coat.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including prep time)
Carrot Top Pesto
Add a pop of color and flavor to your pasta dishes with this vibrant Carrot Top Pesto recipe. This unique take on traditional pesto uses carrot tops (the leafy greens from the top of carrots) to create a sweet and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups carrot tops, stems removed
– 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine carrot tops, pine nuts, and garlic. Process until the mixture is well combined.
2. Add Parmesan cheese and process until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until the pesto reaches your desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the pesto to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a sauce!
Potato Skin Crisps
Elevate your snack game with these crispy potato skin crisps, perfect for satisfying your cravings without breaking the bank!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry with a paper towel.
3. Cut the top third off each potato and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/8 inch of the skin intact.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
5. Place the potato skins on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. If desired, add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or chili powder for extra flavor.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Watermelon Rind Pickles
Transform the often-discarded watermelon rind into a tangy and crunchy snack. This simple recipe uses common pantry staples to create a delicious condiment perfect for topping sandwiches, burgers, or using as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups watermelon rind, thinly sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp pickling spice (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced watermelon rind and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Rinse the rind with cold water, then drain well.
3. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and pickling spice (if using). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Pack the prepared rind into clean glass jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the rind, making sure they’re completely covered.
6. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fish Bone Broth
Nourish your body with this wholesome fish bone broth recipe, rich in collagen and minerals. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, it’s also an excellent base for soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fish bones (any white fish works well)
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– Optional: 1 onion, 2 cloves garlic, 2 carrots, and/or 2 celery stalks for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place fish bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
3. In a large pot or slow cooker, combine roasted bones, water, apple cider vinegar, and sea salt.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours (or cook on high in the slow cooker for 12 hours).
5. Strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard solids.
6. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (stovetop) or 12 hours (slow cooker)
Tomato Pulp Salsa
This recipe makes a deliciously fresh and tangy salsa using tomato pulp as the base. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies, this simple condiment is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tomato pulp (canned or homemade)
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tomato pulp, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Add cumin and salt to taste; stir again.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Apple Core Jelly
This homemade Apple Core Jelly recipe is a sweet and tangy spread made with fresh apples, sugar, and lemon juice. Perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cores (from about 4-6 apples)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine the apple cores, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the liquid has thickened into a jelly-like consistency.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Strain the jelly through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the apple solids.
5. Transfer the jelly to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheese Rind Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect way to repurpose leftover cheese rinds, transforming them into a rich and creamy delight. With only a few ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated cheese (such as cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the grated cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
3. Gradually add the broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Parmesan Rind Pasta
Transform last night’s leftover Parmesan rind into a rich and creamy pasta dish. This recipe is perfect for using up excess cheese and reducing food waste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti or other long pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan rind (crumbly parts only)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add Parmesan rind and cook, stirring occasionally, until crumbly and golden (about 5 minutes).
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir until the mixture simmers and thickens slightly (about 2-3 minutes). Season with salt to taste.
4. Add cooked pasta to the saucepan, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Fat Schmaltz
Take your cooking to the next level with this simple yet decadent chicken fat schmaltz recipe. Perfect for sautéing vegetables, making sauces, or seasoning meats, this flavorful fat is sure to elevate your dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken fat (or duck fat), cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine the chicken fat and kosher salt.
3. Place the saucepan in the oven and melt the fat completely, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from the oven and add the water. Stir until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
5. Allow the schmaltz to cool slightly before using or storing.
Cooking Time:
– 1 hour in the oven
– 30 minutes at room temperature
Beet Greens Stir-fry
This recipe highlights the often-overlooked beet greens, showcasing their mild earthy flavor and tender texture. With a simple stir-fry technique and aromatic spices, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of beet greens (about 2 cups)
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the beet greens; cook until wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Corn Cob Stock
Make a delicious and comforting corn cob stock at home using just a few simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for soups, stews, or as a base for creamy sauces.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the corn cobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Dot the top of each ear of corn with butter.
4. Roast the corn in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly browned and fragrant.
5. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in butter until softened.
6. Add the roasted corn cobs, thyme, and broth to the pot.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
8. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Pineapple Skin Tea
This refreshing tea is a surprising yet delicious way to utilize pineapple skin, which is often discarded. The result is a soothing and flavorful brew that’s perfect for warm weather or whenever you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pineapple skin
– 2 cups water
– Honey or sweetener of your choice (optional)
– Lemon slices or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the dried pineapple skin and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the tea has reached your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a large pitcher or individual cups. Discard the solids.
4. If desired, add honey or sweetener of your choice to taste.
5. Garnish with lemon slices or mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: 2-3 cups tea
Onion Peel Seasoning
Transform discarded onion peels into a flavorful seasoning perfect for adding depth to soups, stews, and roasted vegetables. This easy-to-make blend is a great way to reduce food waste while creating a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dried onion peels
– 1/4 cup garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the dried onion peels on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Allow the toasted onion peels to cool completely.
4. In a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, combine the cooled onion peels, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and salt. Grind until well combined.
5. Store the Onion Peel Seasoning in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None (prepared seasoning)
Citrus Peel Candy
This sweet treat showcases the bright flavors of citrus peels, perfect for a burst of sunshine on a cloudy day. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delightful candy in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (or other citrus juice)
– 2 tablespoons grated citrus peel (orange, lemon, or lime)
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in citrus juice and grated peel.
4. Let cool slightly before pouring into a shallow dish or silicone mat.
5. Allow to set at room temperature or refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to shape into desired forms.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Egg Shell Fertilizer Biscuits
These savory biscuits are infused with the nutrient-rich goodness of eggshell fertilizer, making them a unique and healthy snack. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a thoughtful gift for fellow garden enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup eggshell fertilizer (finely ground)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, cheese (if using), baking powder, and salt.
3. Add eggshell fertilizer and mix until well combined.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get creative with these 20 speedy and delicious recipes that use discarded ingredients! From Leftover Veggie Scramble to Cheese Rind Soup, discover new ways to reduce food waste and make a tasty meal. Learn how to turn banana peels into crispy bacon, stale bread into panzanella salad, and overripe bananas into moist muffins. Plus, explore recipes for slaws, pestos, crisps, pickles, and more! These innovative ideas will inspire you to get creative with your kitchen scraps and reduce your environmental impact.