Raspberries can be picked fresh in the wild when in season or purchased at the grocery store when found at a good price. They can also be grown organically in the back yard, a method that will save money on your food bill.
For the best flavor, eat the berries fresh, or use them in recipes, as soon after picking as possible. You can also flash freeze these and other berries. Clean and lay them on a dry towel. Pat gently with another dry towel and allow to air dry if needed. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and lay the berries separately onto the sheet. Pop them into the freezer. Check on them about every 30 minutes. When they are frozen remove the cookie sheet from the freezer, place the berries in a labeled freezer bag or container, and put back into the freezer.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
-
Add to a Paleo or other muffin mix.
-
Top Paleo pancakes with maple syrup and fresh raspberries.
-
Top Paleo or other waffles with vanilla coconut cream and fresh raspberries.
-
Make a parfait: Layer dairy-free or another vanilla yogurt and raspberries in a clear glass. The top layer should be berries and can be topped with flaked coconut or crushed almonds.
-
Add raspberries to a garden salad.
-
Create a berry salad using blueberries, strawberries and raspberries. Top with a dollop of vanilla flavored coconut cream and sprinkle with nuts or ground flax.
-
Make a melon and berry salad: Ball honey dew and cantaloupe. Combine with raspberries and mint flavored coconut cream.
-
Top your yogurt bowl or smoothie with fresh berries.
-
Make a syrup with water or maple syrup with raspberries. Boil it down and enjoy on desserts, pancakes, and more!
-
Add frozen berries to your other smoothie ingredients and blend well for a cool treat on a hot summer day.
How do you use raspberries frugally in your kitchen? Share with us in the comments.
~ Shannon
44.942650 -68.642560
