If you’re anything like me, you resolved to eat healthier this year. Also, if you’re anything like me, you ran out to the store and bought all the delicious fruits and veggies you could find only to have them sit in your fridge without a clue what to do with them all. It’s the worst to throw out fruits and veggies because they went bad before you could decide what to do with them, and I feel this pain — I often find myself throwing out veggies because they spoiled before I could eat them.
It’s okay, though. We got you. Here are 15 creative ideas for using up your fruits and veggies. These recipes will help you to eat healthier, save money and even help decorate your apartment.
Freeze them
Freezing your fruits and veggies perfectly preserves them so you don’t have to waste those leftover strawberries. You can use them in smoothies or defrost them, add a hint of sugar and dab of whipped cream for a delicious dessert.
Photo: NPR.org
Bake your fruits into a crisp
This dessert is life-changing, and it’s a great way to use up old fruit, especially peaches, apples and blueberries. It’s super easy — simply throw your fruit into a baking pan, fork together one cup of sugar, one cup of flour and one stick of butter, and sprinkle the flour mixture on top of the fruit. Bake for one hour at 350 degrees.
Photo: Thekitchn.com
Use them as toppings in yogurt or oatmeal
Your old fruit will taste amazing once it’s mixed with your favorite flavor yogurt or oatmeal and topped with a touch of granola.
Photo: Immaeatthat.com
Rejuvenate them
Drizzle a little honey or sprinkle a little a sugar on top of your old fruit to boost their flavor and bring them back to life.
Photo: Exploringhealthyfoods.com
Juice them
It’s easier than you think and you don’t even need a fancy juicer. Try this quick recipe for making green juice in a blender.
Photo: Thissavoryvegan.com
Use them as garnish
Let’s be honest. We all want the meals we cook to be Instagram-worthy. The best way to do this is to add garnish to your meal — and your old veggies and fruits make an excellent garnish. Cut up some old lemons or oranges to place under that roast chicken or make a beautiful design out of that wilting spinach.
Photo: Todaysworldkitchen.com
Add them to your grilled cheese
Throw some of those tomatoes or spinach that are just about to go bad on your grilled cheese. You won’t have to throw them out, and your grilled cheese will be next-level delicious.
Photo: Peasandcrayons.com
Make spicy-scented decor
Pro-tip, you can actually turn some old fruits and veggies into potpourri or decor for your apartment. You can add cloves to oranges, for instance, and create some spicy citrus pomander balls that’ll have your space smelling amazing. Try this recipe to make your own!
Photo: Simplebites.net
Cook a brunch-worthy veggie scramble
The best part is that you don’t even need a recipe. Just throw your veggies in a pan with a little olive oil and an egg or potato (or both) for a yummy weekend breakfast.
Photo: Popsugar.com
Roast or grill them
Roasted and grilled veggies are so good, but have you ever tried roasting or grilling your fruit? Your mind will be blown. This is especially great for summer fruits like peaches, nectarines and pineapples.
Photo: Spoonuniversity.com
Make compote or jam
It’s so easy and the best way to use up fruit that is really getting old. Take your old fruit, add sugar to taste and bake in an oven-safe dish or simmer in a pot on the stove. You’ll have a melty, fruity creation you can eat with pancakes, ice cream or all on its own.
Photo: Foodandwine.com
Make homemade syrup
You will be the G.O.A.T. at your next brunch, trust me. Try this easy recipe for DIY fresh fruit syrup.
Photo: Thespruce.com
Make veggie fried rice
Sautee some rice, olive oil, egg and your favorite veggies together to turn your old veggies into this delicious meal.
Photo: Seriouseats.com
Make soup or stew
There are so many great recipes for amazing veggie soups and stews! Try this recipe for a hearty and healthy dinner.
Photo: Cookingclassy.com
Cook them into applesauce
Applesauce isn’t just for apples! Throw in some of your other leftover fruit for a fun twist on this warm, fall treat. You can also toss in some spinach or kale for a veggie boost. Try these fun applesauce recipes for ideas.
Photo: Familyfoodonthetable.com
How do you use up your aging fruits and veggies? Share your ideas with us!