Learn how to freeze fresh vegetables and take advantage of summer’s bounty and farmer’s markets..

Learn how to freeze fresh vegetables and eliminate waste. Often we stock up on fresh produce, and our meal plans are changed, leaving us with wasted food.

Many vegetables can be frozen fresh.

Corn on the cob, green and red peppers, onions, celery, whole tomatoes, garlic, herbs and other vegetables can be frozen as is. The key to all frozen foods is to package in air-tight containers to avoid freezer burn.

These foods generally need blanching before freezing.

Greens (remove tough stems), peas, squash, cauliflower, broccoli, celery, cabbage, green beans, and asparagus are some of the vegetables that should be blanched before freezing. Click here for an informative article on blanching foods.

Fruits or vegetables are better when frozen freshly picked, not withered or stale.

Your freezer needs to be around zero degrees for best results. Here are just a few vegetables good for freezing.Be sure foods that will be frozen with peelings on are washed and dried thoroughly before freezing.

Consider how the foods will be used later.

Veggies you will cook together in casseroles and soups can be chopped and frozen together. Cover with liquid to protect from freezer burn. Thaw and prepare as usual..

1. Corn can be frozen in the husk for best results. Freeze individually and then put into a freezer bag.
2. Squash is certainly in abundance throughout the growing season. If you are making breads, shred several kinds together and store in airtight bags or bowls. To use later in casseroles or soups, peel and chunk squash and sauté with onion and garlic before freezing. Cut large squash in chunks and steam before freezing.
3. Peppers can be chopped in small pieces and frozen. Lay them onto a cookie sheet in freezer to freeze, and then fill freezer bag or container. Peppers can also be frozen whole.  When ready to use, cut off desired amount and keep rest in freezer. Thaw slightly before slicing.
4. Tomatoes can be chopped up and frozen. They can also be frozen whole. The skin will slide off easily after a few minutes of thawing.
5. Corn, peas, green beans and other vegetables that hold up well in cooking will generally freeze well, too.

Have fun, eat healthy, and enjoy!

While you are here, look for more tips under the health tab.