Zero-Waste Kitchen: Recipes Using Every Last Ingredient

In a world where sustainability is more important than ever, reducing food waste is a simple yet impactful way to make a difference. With a little creativity, you can turn leftover ingredients into delicious meals. These zero-waste recipes will help you get the most out of everything you have in your kitchen while minimizing waste. Ready to turn your scraps into something scrumptious? Let’s get started!

1. Leftover Veggie Frittata

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 1 cup leftover cooked vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, spinach, etc.)

• 6 eggs

• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Sauté leftover vegetables in olive oil until heated through.

3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, add cheese, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture over veggies.

4. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes, until set and golden.

   
   

2. Overripe Banana Pancakes

Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 2 overripe bananas, mashed

• 1 cup flour

• 1 egg

• 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt

How to Make:

1. Mash bananas and mix with the egg, milk, and vanilla.

2. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

4. Cook pancakes on a hot griddle, flipping once golden on each side.

   
   

3. Stale Bread Croutons

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 4 slices stale bread, cubed

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss stale bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and golden.

   
   

4. Citrus Peel Marmalade

Ingredients (Makes 2 jars):

• Peels from 3 oranges and 1 lemon

• 2 cups sugar

• 3 cups water

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp pectin (optional)

How to Make:

1. Slice citrus peels into thin strips.

2. Boil water and add the peels, simmering for 30 minutes.

3. Add sugar, lemon juice, and optional pectin. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens.

4. Pour into sterilized jars and seal. Let cool.

   
   

5. Carrot Top Pesto

Ingredients (Makes 1 jar):

• 1 cup carrot greens (the tops of carrots)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 clove garlic

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup nuts (walnuts or almonds work well)

• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make:

1. Blend carrot greens, garlic, nuts, and Parmesan in a food processor.

2. Slowly add olive oil while blending until smooth.

3. Season with salt and pepper. Use as a dip, spread, or pasta sauce.

Eating sustainably doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor. By using every last ingredient, you not only reduce food waste but also create tasty, resourceful meals. Next time you have leftovers or extras in your fridge, try one of these zero-waste recipes and turn your scraps into something delicious!

With love,

The Scarlet Spoon Team 🍴