3 Creative Ways to Reduce Food Waste, Starting with Citrus

There’s no need to waste perfectly good citrus when cleaning out your refrigerator or pantry! Reducing food waste isn’t just great for your wallet—it also helps conserve energy and resources, lowering your carbon footprint in the process.

Ready to save your citrus and refresh your kitchen? Check out these simple yet effective tips below!

Slice and Freeze Your Extra Citrus

Bought a big, bright bag of Darling Citrus^® that you won't have time to enjoy while it's still fresh? Freezing is a simple way to preserve the entire fruit for future use! Start by washing your citrus thoroughly. Zest the peel and store in a freezer-safe bag or container to add an instant burst of flavor to recipes later. Next, slice the fruit and freeze for quick use in drinks, cooking and more.

Fan-favorite ways to enjoy frozen citrus:

• Sweet Smoothies - toss frozen citrus chunks into smoothies for a refreshingly zesty boost
• Bright Cocktails & Mocktails - use frozen slices instead of ice cubes for a flavorful twist
• Citrus-Infused Tea - add frozen citrus into hot or iced tea for a hint of natural flavor
• Citrus-Infused Water - make hydration fun with bright flavors of chilled citrus
• Fresh Baking - Add persevered zest to cakes, muffins or scones
• Quick & Zesty Dinners - Use in marinades, sauces, or roasted dishes for extra brightness
• Homemade Citrus Sorbet - Blend frozen citrus with a little honey for an easy frozen treat

Use your leftover citrus to keep foods from turning brown

Apples, avocados, and bananas are examples of fresh foods that will start to oxidize after you cut into them. Generally, they’re still edible even though the color has changed. It’s simply just the effects of air mixing with the flesh of these fruits. To keep them looking fresh, however, you can squeeze Darling Lemons over the top of the fruits you’ve cut into before placing them in proper storage. The citric acid in lemons helps protect them and maintain their original color. 

Try this out next time you save the rest of your apples or make guacamole!

Dry the peels!

If you’re making a recipe that only calls for the fruit of your Darling Citrus and excludes the rinds, you can reduce food waste by drying out the peels! Always wash and dry your citrus before using it, then, once you’re done with the fruit, save the peels and cut them up into smaller pieces. You can dry out the peels by using a dehydrator, baking them on the lowest setting, or air-drying them. After the peels have finished drying, store them in a cool, dark, and dry place in a food-safe jar or container.

Dried citrus fruit peels are a great addition to many teas, recipes, DIY body products, or even a relaxing bubble bath!

How are you going to save your citrus? Leave us a comment down below!

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