Have you ever bought a big bag or clamshell package of greens, just so you discover it in the back of your fridge one week later, all wilted and sad? Yeah! Me too!
Today it’s time to turn this around so we never ever have this happen again. Are you with me? OK then! Let’s go!
Check out these nine tips that help us use our greens (aka leafy veggies) BEFORE they wilt. Some are easier than others. Choose the ones that resonate the most with you and leave the rest. You might find them useful next time you come back here and re-read them.
1. My favourite quick tip is to make a smoothie
In my opinion any smoothie can use a little bit of greens. If you add a small amount, then the color and taste of the smoothie will likely not be impacted. Only the nutrition.
These kale green smoothie, berry banana smoothie and tropical paradise smoothie could each use some greens in their life. And of course, we can’t forget this earthy delight, which already features spinach and is a nutrition powerhouse.
2. My second favourite tip is to add greens to omelettes, quiches and frittatas
Green leafy vegetables add not only nutrition, but also color and flavour to an egg-based meal. Eating a healthy and pretty-looking meal is one of my favourite things in the world. Is it yours too?
3. Add greens to soups or broths
Soon-to-wilt greens can be added to soups or broths. A delicious example is this chicken wild rice soup, beaming with fresh veggies, chewy wild rice and tender chicken. If you are tired of eating bland chicken soup, this brain-healthy recipe will change your life.
4. Add greens to salads
This salad features kale, but adding greens won’t hurt, of course. More nutrition, the better.
And let’s have a look at this other delicious salad that is waiting for a bit of chopped spinach to boost its already-high nutritional profile.
5. Use greens to make pesto
Blend greens with garlic, your favourite nuts, parmesan cheese and olive oil to make a flavorful pesto. It can be used as a spread on sandwiches, sauce for pasta or as a dip.
6. Add greens to sandwiches and wraps
In my family we love adding spinach to grilled cheese sandwiches and wraps. Have a look at this quick and healthy chicken wrap that is bursting with flavour. Can you imagine adding mixed greens to the tender grilled chicken, crisp and vibrant vegetables and creamy cheese? I sure can.
Stay in the know
Join our community of healthy eaters and receive exclusive resources to help you plan your meals like a pro! Sign up today to get a free meal-planning template, along with expert tips on how to make meal planning work for you.
Plus, you’ll also receive our weekly Health and Yum newsletters featuring healthy and easy recipes, as well as helpful tips to support your healthy lifestyle.
7. Make green cubes
Blend the leafy greens with a bit of water and freeze the mixture in ice cube trays. Use these green cubes in smoothies or soups. Or you can add them to casseroles after the cubes are thawed and drained.
8. Add greens to various dishes, including casseroles
Chop your favourite leafy greens and add them to your family’s tried and true casseroles.
I am a bit partial to these two dishes: spinach artichoke casserole and tofu chickpea curry. Artichokes are delicious and fun to eat, and are also an important ingredient in boosting brain function. The same goes for tofu and chickpeas that are simmered in a flavourful and creamy curry sauce that will bring you back for seconds. And thirds! 😀
9. Compost
When the greens are beyond salvaging for consumption, consider sending them back to earth, where they came from. And if you have a garden, I’m sure you’ll make it very happy.
I hope you found some of these tips on using your greens before they wilt useful. Do you have any tips that help you use up the greens from your fridge? Share them below so we all learn. 💖
