The Kitchen Garten

Backyard Gardening and Garden Fresh Recipes

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Easy Oven Roasted Radishes

Radishes are incredibly easy to grow in the home garden, and they are for more than just salads! If your only experience with radishes is running away in fear of their spicy bite, then have I got news for you! Radishes that are roasted in the oven are both delicious and incredibly mild in flavor. They’re also a great substitute for roasted potatoes!

oven roasted radishes on a white plate

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Why Roast Radishes

First, rashes are incredibly easy to grow in the home garden, and they make an excellent substitute for potatoes in a variety of ways. They have fewer carbs than potatoes; in fact, they only have 4 g of carbs for every one cup of radishes.

I decided to roast radishes because we had an abundance in our garden this fall, and the beautiful colors were just begging to be roasted in the oven. I love roasting lots of vegetables because it’s a very forgivable method of cooking. (Find the Best Roasted Cauliflower here!)

And if you’re concerned about the amount of sugar in radishes, don’t be. Radishes are low in sugar and low on the glycemic index, so they should not affect your blood sugar like some potatoes can.

While radishes won’t have exactly the same texture as a roasted potato, my family thinks they are pretty close. I’ve also used radishes in place of potatoes in slow cooker roasts, and those have turned out excellent as well. In fact, my kids couldn’t tell they were eating radishes instead of small potatoes!

freshly picked red and pink radishes ready to be oven roasted
Radishes fresh from the garden

What’s needed to roast radishes

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  2. While oven is preheating, wash radishes and remove the tops if necessary. If you’re using homegrown radishes, then the tops can be eaten, or they can be placed in the compost pile. (Learn how to start composting, too!)
freshly washed radishes ready to be oven roasted
Cleaned and topped radishes

3. Place clean radishes on a sheet pan. If you’re using a larger variety of radish, you can cut them in half, but that’s up to you.

cut radishes on a pan about to be oven roasted

4. Drizzle oil over radishes, using a spatula to make sure they’re coated. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste and add the garlic powder.

5. Slide pan in oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges of the radishes are golden brown.

6. Serve immediately.

Easy oven roasted radishes on a white plate

Serve oven roasted radishes with any main dish meat or fish or combine with any other veggies that you’re planning to roast. Radishes work well paired with cauliflower or broccoli roasted right on the same pan.

Roasted Radish FAQ’s

  • Are roasted radishes healthy? Yes, as a non-processed food that’s low on the glycemic index, I would categorize them as a healthy food. (Disclaimer: I am not a doctor or nutritionist.) However, if you are on a diet that requires less salt or that has you watching your intake of fats, such as oil, then consider this when preparing your radishes and pull back on these ingredients accordingly.
  • For more info, check out this article on the health benefits of radishes.
  • Can radishes be roasted alongside other vegetables? Absolutely! Pair radishes with broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, or really any other vegetable you’re planning to roast.
  • Are there other ways to prepare radishes other than raw and roasting? Yes, they can be included in roasts (in place of potatoes), sautéed in a skillet, and even fermented for a gut-healthy side dish. (Find out how to ferment radishes!)

Other vegetable side dishes

Yield: 4 servings

Easy Oven Roasted Radishes

roasted radishes on a white plate

Learn to roast radishes in the oven for a delicious low carb side dish or as a way to use up garden fresh radishes. Perfect as a substitute for potatoes, these oven roasted radishes are ready in less than 30 minutes.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3-4 cups fresh radishes
  • 2-3 Tablespoons Olive or Avocado Oil
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

    1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
    2. While oven is preheating, wash radishes and remove the tops if necessary. If you’re using homegrown radishes, then the tops can be eaten, or they can be placed in the compost pile.
    3. Place clean radishes on a sheet pan. If you’re using a larger variety of radish you can cut them in half.
    4. Drizzle oil over radishes using a spatula to make sure they’re coated. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste and add the garlic powder.
    5. Slide pan in oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes or until the edges of the radishes are golden brown.
    6. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

4

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 96Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 764mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 6gSugar: 6gProtein: 3g
© Courtney
Cuisine: N/A / Category: Side Dish Recipes

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Growing a Winter Vegetable Garden

Does the fall and impending winter have you a bit sad about the end of the gardening season? Chin up! The climate where I live actually makes gardening all winter long completely possible. Does this mean heirloom tomatoes in December? Not exactly; though one of my fellow Master Gardeners was able to eat a Christmas Eve tomato sandwich a few years ago due to a well tended plant moved indoors. But how can all gardeners enjoy a vegetable garden all winter?

So, if tomatoes and those other hot-weather-loving veggies are out, what can a gardener grow in the winter? That all depends on what your goals are for the winter garden.

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Do you want to have food to harvest and eat, or are you looking to have a low-maintenance cover that can build up your soil for the upcoming spring? Whatever your winter gardening goals, there’s something to grow for every gardener!

Winter Vegetable Garden Favorites

Fall and winter gardening is my favorite for several reasons. First, there are significantly less pests in the winter. Grubs have gone underground; vine borers have worn out their welcome, and mosquitoes are fewer and farther between. Secondly, when gardening in winter, it takes more than two seconds to work up a sweat. Not true for the spring and summer garden. 

So, what is a gardener to grow in the winter when chances are frost are frequent? For those gardeners wanting to have fresh food at their fingertips this winter, here are some cool weather favorites. Some of them actually taste better after a frost or two!

Fall lettuces in a porch planter.

Many of these cool weather crops could also be grown in containers if you’d like less work than a full garden. (Find out how to build a self-watering planter from a galvanized bucket perfect for lettuce!)

Also be on the lookout for cabbage moths (white with a black dot on each wing), who also love many of the brassicas listed above. If you see these moths flying around, check out my article on How to Get Rid of Cabbage Worms (and prevent them)!

Set it and Forget it Winter Gardening

For those who like to take a full break during the winter, there are still options for your garden. Some vegetables can take all winter and spring to grow, and others can grow untouched, only to be cut and turned into the soil come spring time.

Both of these low-maintenance options will require minimal work, but will still give a gardener good things to look forward to in spring.

For a spring/summer crop that requires no work during the winter consider some choices from the allium family. These crops are the crock pot of gardening… set them and forget them. 

Popular Winter Allium Choices:

Garlic growing in our front flower beds.

These alliums will grow all winter long and then are harvested and cured in the late spring/early summer. 

Winter Garden Cover Crops

Using cover crops is another way to grow all winter long without necessarily needing to harvest. Cover crops can help build up your soil in the winter and provide a source of food for your family, as well as other creatures great and small in your backyard ecosystem.

These winter cover crops will also help cut down on the weeds that can grow in a dormant winter garden, and what gardener doesn’t want less weeds? 

Having a soil test done by your local Cooperative Extension office is the best way to determine what cover crop would work best for your garden. These soil tests are free in the winter, and provide valuable information about the levels of phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen in your garden soil.

Once you have your results in hand, determine if your garden soil needs a legume cover crop that would provide needed nitrogen, or perhaps a non-legume crop that could instead build up your soil in other ways. (Read about how to build up your garden soil.)

If your soil doesn’t specifically need a healthy dose of more nitrogen, then a combination of legume and non-legume cover crops would be a safe bet. Here are some favorite winter cover crops:

Collard Green cover crop in a raised bed

For cover crops, be sure you are able to turn the crop back into the soil come late winter/early spring. 

Growing a garden all winter long really is possible in our moderate climate. Even an occasional snow isn’t enough to hold back many of the cool weather vegetables.

If you would like to take your gardening even further this winter, consider using a cold frame or a small greenhouse to expand what you’re able to grow in the coldest months of the year. If you’ve decided to take a gardening break this winter, that’s okay too. Enjoy your rest, because spring will be here before you know it!

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How to Dry Sage (Rubbed Sage)

Sage is easily one of the hardiest herbs to grow in the backyard garden or container. It’s lovely shape and scent help to keep pests out of the garden and provide the grower with a delicious herb to use in a variety of ways.

Growing sage is quite easy no matter the space and once it’s filled out with leaves, many gardeners want to hang on to that flavor for as long as possible. So, how can a sage lover preserve sage to use year-round? Drying sage, also known as rubbed sage, is super easy and will give you rich sage flavor all year long!

Growing Sage at Home

As I mentioned, sage is one of the easiest herbs to grow in the garden, and I have a few resources on my site all about growing sage plants at home. Here’s a full article on How to Plant, Grow, and Harvest Sage.

When I think about sage, I automatically think about Thanksgiving turkey, since this herb is a classic seasoning for this holiday bird. And the recipe that I use for our rotisserie turkey uses lots of delicious sage, and it’s a hit every year.

Growing sage at home and harvesting the leaves to dry lets you know exactly where your herbs are coming from and what they are treated with. Sage is an herb that is particularly susceptible to gray mold and other diseases, which means that commercially grown sage is treated with pesticides and fungicides. Knowing this encourages me to keep on growing sage at home and drying it here to avoid unnecessary exposure to fungicide residues.

Store Bought Sage

Can you use store bought fresh sage for drying? Absolutely! My recommendation, due to the fungicide issue I mentioned above would be to use organic sage from your local grocery store. You can usually find it packaged in small plastic containers in the produce section of the grocery store.

If you happen to have a friend who grows sage, they may have an abundance and might even share! Sharing is caring, right?

How to air dry sage

For air drying sage at home, there are several things you’ll need:

  • Fresh sage still on the branches
  • Paper bag
  • Twine
preparing bunches of sage for drying

Tie up the ends of the sage stems/branches with twine. Place sage leaf end down inside the paper bag with the ends sticking out.

Use a rubber band to keep bag tied onto sage bundle. Hang the bagged sage in a cool, dark place for several weeks. You’ll know the sage is ready when a leaf easily crumbles when rubbed between fingers.

Rub sage leaves over parchment paper and then use as a funnel to place rubbed sage into a clean herb jar. (These jars are great to use!)

Oven drying sage

Here’s what you’ll need to oven dry sage:

  • Fresh sage leaves
  • Clean kitchen cloth
  • Parchment paper (I like this Unbleached Parchment… it’s compostable, too!)
  • Large baking sheet
  1. Begin by washing sage leaves and removing them from the stem. Place the leaves on a clean kitchen cloth to dry.

2. Preheat oven to 180 degrees, or your oven’s lowest temperature (mine is 180.) Place clean leaves on a parchment lined cookie sheet, and slide in the oven.

3. “Bake” the leaves until they are dry to the touch and easily crumble when rubbed. This only took one hour in my oven, but if your oven’s lowest temp is lower, then it may take longer.

4. Crumble leaves directly on the parchment paper, removing any leftover stems. Then use the parchment as a funnel to pour dried sage into a clean jar. Store in a cool, dry place.

How to dehydrate sage

Clean sage, as directed above. (No one wants to dry out soil, right?) Place clean leaves in a single layer in your dehydrator.

Follow your model’s recommended instructions for timing and temperature. I have an Instant Pot Vortex Plus, which an air fryer, oven, rotisserie, and dehydrator all in one. My model calls for 8-10 hours for drying herbs. I haven’t tried it yet, but I’m hoping to with another batch.

How to Dry Herbs

Drying herbs at home is quick and easy and it's reassuring knowing where your herbs were grown and how they were dried. These easy recipes will fill your spice cabinet up with fresh herbs that you can use all year long.

How to Dry Fresh Basil

Knowing how to dry fresh basil is an easy way to preserve this popular herb. Dried basil is a delicious way to flavor meals, and you'll know exactly where your basil came from!

Garlic and Herb Seasoning Salt

Fresh herbs, garlic, and coarse salt come together in this easy recipe for seasoning salt or finishing salt. This recipe is a fantastic way to use up fresh herbs and to have a delicious add on to all of your favorite meals.

How to Save Dill Seeds

Learning how to save dill seeds is quick and easy. One plant can give hundreds of seeds to use for replanting or for recipes in the kitchen.

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9 Best Plants to Give as Gifts

Giving a plant as a gift is a gesture that will provide long-lasting joy. There are no calories or wrong sizes involved. In fact, indoor plants can live for decades and produce multiple offspring via cuttings that can be shared, so the joy will spread far and wide. Here are 9 fantastic choices for plants to give as gifts, even for those who aren’t green thumbs!

When considering giving a plant as a gift, be sure to select a plant that is easy to care for so the recipient won’t be encumbered with the care of a finicky houseplant. Check out these 8 plants that are easy-care and make excellent gifts for any occasion.

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Great plants for gifts

Poinsettias as gifts

This tropical plant is a classic at Christmas, but did you know they can live year round? I’ve had a poinsettia in my living room for the past two years, and while it isn’t the red gem it was when I purchased it, it is growing strong. Gifting a poinsettia to someone at the holidays is a perfect gift that has no calories!

Flower basket with Christmas Poinsettias and ferns

 Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas Cactus

Just last year, I would have told you that all indoor plants of this variety are called Christmas Cactus, but that’s just not true. The shapes of the leaves of this variety of cactus will clue you in to what type you have or are purchasing. These low maintenance plants all blooms stunning multi-layered blooms once a year, so they’re a wonderful gift.

If you have one of these cacti, then you can root a new plant for a friend very easily, so don’t be afraid to give it a try! Find Christmas Cactus online here!

African Spear Plant

This beautiful plant will produce 12-18 inch tall leaves that are shaped like a spear. The African Spear Plant (Sansevieria Cylindrica) grows best in bright light and only requires minimal water to thrive. So even a friend with the tiniest green thumb can keep this one alive.

Sansevieria Cylindrica plant in a white vase on white background

Cast Iron Plant

The Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra Elatior) is virtually indestructible and thrives on neglect. 

This tough houseplant can survive on very little water, low-light, and in dry indoor air. Wipe dust off leaves with a soft, damp cloth as needed. They are also perfect porch plants for those without direct sun and with mild temperatures. So if the person you gift this to would rather not have an indoor plant, chances are they can stick it outside to thrive! (Find cast iron plants here!)

cast-iron-plant or bar-room plant on a old clay pot

Chinese Money Plant

Pilea peperomioides has large round leaves shaped like coins. The Chinese Money plant is always producing tiny new plants that are easy to remove from the soil and give as gifts. Place plant in a bright location, water when soil becomes dry, and it will reach a mature height of 1-2 feet.

And who doesn’t want a plant that produces money? This would be a great gift for a family with young kids, since the parents could talk about money growing on trees.

Pilea peperomioides. Chinese money plant or pancake plant.

Hindu Rope Plant

This is a slow-growing indoor plant that produces trailing vines which resemble thick ropes. The Hindu Rope Plant (Hoya carnosa compacta) needs 4-hours of direct sunlight daily and regular watering in order for it to produce clusters of tiny pink blooms.

So this plant would be the perfect gift for a friend who loves flowers and wants to try growing them indoors!

Pothos 

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a hardy vine plant that has glossy light green leaves that wilt when the plant is thirsty. Ideal for growing in a hanging basket or allowing to grow vertically and climbing along the wall.

The pothos plant is so easy to grow that it is a common housewarming gift. We’ve had several pothos plants in our home since we first got married, so they certainly do stand the test of time. No interest in having them long and trailing? Simply prune them back!

The Pothos with Natural Light in the Morning

Snake Plant

Also known as Mother-in-Laws Tongue, the Snake Plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata) is an easy-care indoor plant that is in the cacti family. The snake plant will produce tall leaves that resemble a green tongue and a white hooded bloom in summer that resemble a cobra. Wipe dust off leaves with a damp cloth as needed and water sparingly.

snake plants in white planters
Green houseplants in interior of modern room

ZZ Plant

Zamioculcas zamiifolia is commonly known as the ZZ plant and is an easy-care succulent that is native to Africa. And no, it doesn’t have a long beard and drive a classic car. I digress.

The ZZ plant has glossy round leaves and only needs to be watered once a month, so impress a friend with this low maintenance plant as a gift!

ZZ plant in natural fiber planter on windowsill

Plants are such a wonderful gift idea because they are useful for brightening up a home and cleaning the air, as well as being fairly low maintenance. So consider giving plants as gifts for any number of occasions this year.

If you are a plant person yourself, then you may be able to simply share plants you’re already growing at home!

More Plant Gift Ideas

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How to Grow Moonflower Vines

Growing moonflower vines, or any flowers that really puts on a show, is pure joy for gardeners. My first year growing moonflowers, I was in awe at how beautiful and large the blooms were and decided I wanted to grow them each year! So how do you grow a moonflower vine and how should you care for moonflowers?

What is a moonflower?

Moonflower (Ipomoea alba) is a unique annual vine that produces a large fragrant white bloom. Part of its uniqueness is due to the time of day in which the bloom opens—at dusk. These large white flowers twirl open and glisten in the dark under the light of the moon.

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Moonflower a the night-blooming cousin of the morning glory, which produces blooms at sunrise. The vines are easy to grow and will provide a fragrant show each summer night while the sun is setting.

Preparing moonflower seeds

Moonflower seeds are very hard and will need to undergo a stratification process before planting. (Eden Brothers Organic has a good selection of moonflower seeds as does True Leaf Market!) Stratification refers to softening a hard seed coat so water can enter to promote germination.

There are a few different methods for this including cold stratification, which you can see here in MiGardener’s video, or you can use the process of scarification, which is what I recommend for moonflower seeds.

It’s a simple process that involves nicking the outer seed coat with a knife or similar sharp object, then soaking the seeds overnight in warm water. Don’t be intimidated by this step; the results are totally worth the effort! And this is very similar to what I do with other “tougher” seeds like pumpkin seeds.

When to plant moonflower

Plant moonflower seeds directly in the garden soil or 12-inch deep container in mid-spring when temperatures are consistently 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Plant seeds 1/4-inches deep and 12-inches apart. Vines need to be grown in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Also consider where you’re planting, since a moonflower vine will need support to attach to.

Caring for moonflower plants

Once your plants are in the ground and growing, be sure to not feed moonflowers with any type of fertilizer, neither organic nor synthetic. Feeding these plants will result in an abundance of leaves and very few blooms, and we’re growing them for the blooms, right?

Water the moonflower vines regularly until seeds have germinated and the plants are established. Then apply 1-inch of water a week during times of drought.

Moonflowers are self-seeding, which can be a great thing. Remove spent blooms before the seeds mature to prevent them from becoming overcrowded.

If you’re interested in saving moonflower seeds, be sure to check what variety you’re growing, since some types aren’t as reliable for seed saving purposes. Check out Gardening Know How’s article on How to Save Moonflower Seeds.

How to trellis moonflower vines

Moonflower vines are overachievers and will reach a mature length of 20-feet. The vines will twine their way around anything near them, so it’s a great idea to provide a trellis or other support system for them to climb on. I personally love this garden obelisk from Amazon, and it is super cost efficient and beautiful!

Along a fence, up a porch post, or across an arbor or pergola are also some great ideas for providing support to long moonflower vines. They are such stunning blooms, that wherever you decide to grow your moonflowers, they’ll be beautiful.

Different varieties of moonflowers

Moonflower varieties are very similar- all develop long vines and fragrant flowers that open at dusk. The bloom colors are white or purple and the petals will be heart or star-shaped, so choose the variety that suits your fancy.

Moonflowers pair well with their morning glory cousins to create a garden that blooms day and night. Star jasmine and flowering tobacco also produce vines with white blooms and will create an after-dark glowing effect in the garden when planted near moonflowers.

Moonflower FAQ’s

  • Do moonflowers come back every year? Most varieties are self-seeding, so while they are typically seen as an annual, the seeds from last year’s plants may germinate on their own.
  • Can moonflowers be grown in pots? Absolutely! Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and plant away!
  • Do moonflowers bloom only once? Typically, yes. A moonflower will bloom and then that bud will be spent. There should be other buds along your moonflower vine.

Have some insight on growing and caring for moonflowers? Share it with our gardening community by leaving a comment below!

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Easy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkins are a fall staple both on the front porches of homes and in recipes in the kitchen. And while we love to use the flesh of pumpkins for our purees and pies, the seeds of the pumpkin also hold a tasty treat that’s super easy to make. My recipe for easy roasted pumpkin seeds can we whipped up in less than an hour and is a perfect fall snack!

Pumpkin Seed Nutrition

Wondering if roasted pumpkin seeds are a worthwhile snack? Well, wonder no longer. They are! I know I’m always looking for a nutritious snack, both for myself and my family, and pumpkin seeds (also called pepitas) definitely fit the bill. The American Heart Association has a great article about the health benefits of pumpkin seeds and why you should roast your own in order to avoid all of the “extras” that come with pre-packaged food.

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Our family enjoys the fresh taste of home roasted seeds, so be sure to check out my recipe for Easy Roasted Sunflower Seeds, which are a perfect end of summer treat!

Here’s what pumpkin seeds have to offer:

  • More than half your daily intake of zinc (6.6 mg) in a single serving
  • They contain tryptophan (just like turkey!) which can help with sleep
  • In some studies, pumpkin seeds have been linked to a reduced risk of breast and prostate cancers.
  • For those with diabetes, pumpkin seeds have been shown to help control glycemic levels.
  • Pumpkin seeds eaten with their shells have a whopping 5.2 grams of fiber in every serving!

How to roast pumpkin seeds

While roasting pumpkin seeds at home may seem like a daunting task, it’s really not difficult. In fact, the hardest part is reaching your hand into the pumpkin and scooping the seeds out! The stringy inside of the pumpkin can make this job seem pretty gross, but if you have a kid that likes yucky things, then be sure pass this job onto him or her.

Here’s what you’ll need to get your pumpkin seeds ready and roasted:

Let’s get those pumpkin seeds roasting

  1. Begin by cleaning your pumpkin seeds. Do this by placing the seeds in a colander and running under lukewarm water. Pull off the stringy pumpkin pieces while rinsing the seeds. Then lay seeds on a clean dish cloth and let dry for 10 minutes before placing back in a clean bowl.

2. Melt butter in a small ramekin or bowl and pour over your clean pumpkin seeds. Use a rubber spatula and mix well.

3. Pour pumpkin seeds onto a large sheet pan. (Line with parchment paper for faster cooling afterwards.) Sprinkle with salt and use the spatula to mix the salt and seeds well. Be sure seeds are in a single layer on pan, not clumps.

4. Bake pumpkin seeds at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes, checking halfway through and rotating the pan.

5. Remove seeds from oven and allow seeds to cool on baking sheet. (Or if your seeds were on parchment paper, lift the paper off of the pan and place on cooling rack for faster cooling. )

How to store roasted pumpkin seeds

Place roasted seeds in an airtight container and keep in a cool, dry place for several weeks. These pumpkin seeds make an excellent gift for friends and neighbors, and you may be surprised by how many of them have never tried roasted pumpkin seeds before!

Yield: 2 cups

Easy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

roasted pumpkin seeds in a glass jar on a wooden table

Roast pumpkin seeds at home with this easy roasted pumpkin seeds recipe! With just three ingredients, pumpkin seeds turn into a quick snack!

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Additional Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups pumpkin seeds
  • 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter (you can use salted, but just pull back on the added salt.)
  • 1-2 teaspoons kosher salt or sea salt

Instructions

    1. Begin by cleaning your pumpkin seeds. Do this by placing the seeds in a colander and running under lukewarm water. Pull off the stringy pumpkin pieces while rinsing the seeds. Then lay seeds on a clean dish cloth and let dry for 10 minutes before placing back in a clean bowl.
    2. Melt butter in a small ramekin or bowl and pour over your clean pumpkin seeds. Use a rubber spatula and mix well.
    3. Pour pumpkin seeds onto a large sheet pan. (Line with parchment paper for faster cooling afterwards.) Sprinkle with salt and use the spatula to mix the salt and seeds well. Be sure seeds are in a single layer on pan, not clumps.
    4. Bake pumpkin seeds at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes, checking halfway through and rotating the pan.
    5. Remove seeds from oven and allow seeds to cool on baking sheet. (Or if your seeds were on parchment paper, lift the paper off of the pan and place on cooling rack for faster cooling. )

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Nutrition Information:

Yield:

12

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 56Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 3mgSodium: 403mgCarbohydrates: 6gFiber: 2gSugar: 0gProtein: 2g
© Courtney
Cuisine: N/A / Category: Kid-Friendly Recipes

Other fresh fall recipes

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What to do with old pumpkins

Pumpkins are a classic outdoor and indoor decor item for the fall. From carving and filling with light to using smaller pie pumpkins for centerpieces and mantel toppers, pumpkins are in abundance during the fall. So, what are you to do with pumpkins once their decorating purpose is done? Here are some creative and useful ways to get rid of pumpkins in the fall that keeps them out of landfills.

Fun ways to dispose of pumpkins

If you just need to get those carved pumpkins off of your porch, but you don’t want to contribute to the local landfill, then try these fun ways of “throwing out” an old Jack-O-Lantern.

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  • Feed the compost: Instead of tossing that pumpkin in the trashcan, consider adding your pumpkin shell to your own compost pile. No compost pile? No problem! Learn how to start composting here or even how to direct compost, no pile needed! Composting pumpkins helps put nutrients back into your soil and may even get you some pumpkin plants for next year! No desire to compost? Ask a neighbor who has a compost pile if you can contribute!
  • Feed the animals: Have pumpkins that aren’t rotting on the stoop? Consider feeding them to local goats or chickens. Many backyard “farm” animals would love a pumpkin treat. If you don’t have a backyard flock or animals, check with local friends who do. They may be happy to take your unused vegetables!
  • Toss it out: I’m not encouraging littering, per se, but if you have land or know of a patch of woods, then remove any candles, wax, and/or seeds from your pumpkins and toss the shells. The shell and flesh will break down, benefiting your land or that patch of woods you toss it in.
  • Pumpkin Smashing: I mention this because I have three kids, two of which are boys, so they love to smash just about anything. If you’re planning on kicking your pumpkins to the compost or the woods, why not scoop out the seeds (for roasting of course), then let the kiddos have fun with a pumpkin piñata. Hang it or leave it on the ground, they’ll just enjoy smashing it up, and it will actually break down better in the compost if it’s in pieces. Your kids will thank you for the chance to break something on purpose!
Direct Compost
Our direct compost below one of our raised beds

How to use old pumpkins

Not quite ready to toss out your old decorative or porch pumpkins yet? Here are some fun and creative ways to use those pumpkins to feed your family and to simply enjoy!

  • Homemade Pumpkin Puree: This easy Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree recipe only takes a few minutes and gives you fresh puree for all of those fall baked goods! (Don’t miss these Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins!) You can use any type of pumpkin, but the small sugar pumpkins do work best for flavor.
  • Easy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: Before you make your pumpkin into puree, scoop out those seeds and roast them. This easy roasted pumpkin seed recipe just takes a few minutes of prep work, and then you’ll have a snack that’s healthy, delicious, and homemade!
  • Pumpkin planter: Want to ramp up your decor for Thanksgiving or the holidays? Repurpose your pumpkin into a fun planter! Stephanie over at Garden Therapy has a wonderful tutorial for creating a pumpkin planter and tips for how to make it last.
  • Seed Saving: If you liked the pumpkins you had for decor this year, then try saving some of the seeds to plant next year. Simply scoop out some of the seeds, then let them dry on a paper towel. Place dried seeds in a cool, dry place until ready to plant next spring or summer. If you decide to compost your pumpkin with the seeds inside, then chances are, your compost pile may spring up with a new plant on its own!

Fall Garden Helps

Get help planning, planting, and harvesting your fall vegetable garden!

Easy Fall Garden Planning

Before you put seeds or plants in the ground, know what grows well in your area, what you actually like to eat, and what grows best in fall. Plan your fall garden for success!

8 Tips for Planting Bulbs in the Fall

Fall is the perfect time for planting many spring bulbs, so put your best flower forward with these tips for planting flower bulbs this fall.

How to Grow Garlic

Fall is the season for planting garlic, and this super easy allium can be set in the ground and then minimally tended. Find out how to grow garlic from clove to harvest!

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Garlic and Herb Seasoning Salt

Looking for a good way to use up the last of your basil or other herbs from the garden? Here is an easy and adaptable recipe that you can use to turn your summer garden herbs into a healthy seasoning to be used throughout the year. 

Why make seasoning salt?

Store bought seasoning salt and spice blends are not only pricy, but usually are filled with preservatives and other ingredients. When you make these seasonings at home, you know exactly what is going into the final product, and can do it for a fraction of the price. Seasoning salt also makes a great little gift for family and friends.

This post may contain affiliate links, which simply means I may earn a commission off of links at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

Homemade or DIY seasoning salt is also a great way to use up herbs in the garden that are dying back or about to go to seed. Drying herbs is certainly an option for storing them for use all winter long, but why not try something new that will bring a pop to many of your favorite recipes?

How to use seasoning salt

Seasoning salt can be used pretty much anywhere you would add table salt to a savory dish. Garlic breads, salads, meats, fish, pastas, cheese dishes, and eggs are a few ideas to get you started. I even added it to a savory bread recipe and it turned out amazing! 

This salt blend is also known as finishing salt, meaning you can simply sprinkle the mixture on your food before you serve it. It pairs well with tomato and mozzarella, hamburgers, or even watermelon!

Seasoning salt ingredient list

(This is the general guideline, feel free to play around with the amounts, depending on your preferences.) Here are some fun herbs for use with garlic:

  • Rosemary (I’d use only 1/4 of a cup, since rosemary’s flavor is a bit stronger.)
  • Thyme
  • Oregano

How to make homemade seasoning salt or finishing salt

  1. Preheat the oven to 225 degrees.
  2. Separate garlic cloves and peel. Add garlic to a food processor and pulse a few times. Add the rest of the ingredients.
  3. Blend the mixture on a high speed till everything is finely chopped and incorporated.

4. Spread salt mixture on a parchment paper lined baking sheet, and bake until the mixture appears dry, about 30 minutes.

5. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on the parchment paper.

6. If needed, return to a dry food processor and pulse until desired consistency is reached.

How to store finishing salt

Store seasoning salt or finishing salt in an airtight container (I prefer to use glass when possible) at room temperature. (These swing top jars are air tight and perfect for gifting finishing salt to friends and family.)

For the best flavor use within 3 months. If you were careful to dry it completely, the seasoning salt will last much longer since the salt is a preservative.

Seasoning salt substitutions

  • Onion
  • Pepper
  • Garlic
  • Paprika

These are all popular flavors added to salt when making seasoning salt. There are plenty of other savories and herbs that may be growing in your garden such as rosemary, thyme, mint, sage, and parsley that will also work in this recipe (with or without the basil and garlic).

Maintain the salt to herb ratio and use your creativity to try different flavors that work for you and your tastes. I’d love to know in the comments below if you’ve tried other herb combinations or if you have a recipe where finishing salt is used.

Other fresh herb preserving

Yield: 1 cup

Garlic and Herb Seasoning Salt

garlic and herb salt in a glass jar on a wooden table

Fresh herbs, garlic, and coarse salt come together in this easy recipe for seasoning salt or finishing salt. This recipe is a fantastic way to use up fresh herbs and to have a delicious add on to all of your favorite meals.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • ½ cup packed basil (or any favorite fresh herb)
  • ½ cup salt (preferably a coarse sea salt or kosher salt)
  • 1 head of garlic

Instructions

    1. Preheat the oven to 225 degrees.
    2. Separate garlic cloves and peel. Add garlic to a food processor and pulse a few times. Add the rest of the ingredients.
    3. Blend the mixture on a high speed till everything is finely chopped and incorporated.
    4. Spread salt mixture on a parchment paper lined baking sheet, and bake until the mixture appears dry, about 30 minutes.
    5. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on the parchment paper.
    6. If needed, return to a dry food processor and pulse until desired consistency is reached.

Notes

Use any fresh herb from the garden or grocery store in place of the basil.

Store your seasoning salt in a cool, dry place, sealed well.

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© Carrie Himes
Cuisine: N/A / Category: Preserving

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How to Plant, Grow, and Harvest Thyme

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a fragrant herb that can be easily be grown indoors or outdoors. This versatile herb plant can be used in a variety of ways and will add beauty and fragrance to a garden, and a delicate aroma and grassy flavor to any recipe. (We love it in fish marinades!)

Provide this easy-care herb with plenty of sunshine, well-draining soil, and bi-monthly feeding, and this evergreen herb plant will thrive and provide year-around harvesting.

Planting Thyme

Thyme is a low-growing, hardy perennial that is evergreen in most gardening zones. It is drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly, and it needs plenty of sun to grow.

This post may contain affiliate links, which simply means I may earn a commission off of links at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

This herb thrives in semi-drought conditions and must have well-draining soil to survive. It will not tolerate soggy soil. 

Thyme seeds can be difficult to germinate, so plant 2-3 times more seeds than desired to ensure a few seedlings develop. It’s simpler to start with plants from a garden center or take some cuttings from a friend.

Plant seeds, plants, or cuttings of young thyme plants any time after the ground temperature reaches 70°F. Scatter seeds in rows or in a container, then thin plants after germination to 9-inches apart. Plant cuttings or plants and 9-inches apart.  Mature plants will be 6 -12 inches in height.

Caring for thyme plants

Use these general tips for caring for thyme plants to keep your herb happy and healthy!

  • Allow soil to completely dry out before watering. (Use the finger test to see if the soil is still moist an inch or so down.)
  • Feed thyme twice a month with a weak solution of fish emulsion or liquid seaweed. Dilute the plant food to half the recommended rate before feeding. (Check out Neptune Brand Fertilizer here.)
  • Prune the plants back in the spring and summer to contain the growth.
  • Add a 2-inch layer of organic mulch around thyme in climates that have cold winter weather.
  • Divide plants every 4 years so they won’t become overcrowded and will continue to produce tender new growth.

Harvesting and using thyme

Harvest thyme as soon as the plant has plenty of foliage. You don’t want to cut off the only leaves a plant has since that’s its source of making food.

Cut off the stems and rinse them. Pick off the leaves or simply run your thumb and index finger down the length of the stem to push off the leaves. (This is a super easy method that I personally use.) You can also use a leaf scraper that would be great for harvesting any type of herb leaf.

Chop leaves or add them whole to sauces, soups, and other dishes. The stems can be stewed in stock to release their flavor; use a cheesecloth bag to easily remove the stems from your soups and broths.

Thyme leaves can be dried by spreading them on a cookie sheet for 24-hours in a warm dry area. Store dried leaves in an air-tight container in a cool, dark location.

Herb Growing Guides

Need some help growing other herbs in the garden? Check out all of my guides on how to grow herbs:

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How to Plant, Grow, and Harvest Sage

Do you want to add a resilient and easy to grow herb to your backyard garden or herb garden? Sage (salvia officinalis) is just what you’re looking for. Learn to plant, grow, and harvest sage plants, a hardy and delicious herb, perfect for beginner and experienced gardeners alike. Check out these helpful tips for sage plant care!

Why grow sage?

This herb is best known for its flavorful addition to the Thanksgiving meal. But it’s so much more than a turkey’s favorite seasoning! Sage (Salvia officinalis) is also a key herb used in sausage making and is great for adding to freshly ground poultry or pork.

This post may contain affiliate links, which simply means I may earn a commission off of links at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my site!

There are several varieties of sage and this fragrant herb is used for medicinal purposes, culinary uses, and as an attractive garden flower. Not all sage plants are edible, but all make a great addition to a home vegetable or flower garden. (Be sure the sage you’ve selected for your herb garden is edible!) You can successfully grow sage in your home garden with these helpful tips.

How To Plant Sage

Though sage is a hardy plant, sage seeds do not germinate well. To make up for this low germination rate, be sure to plant 2-3 times more seeds than you need to help ensure a good plant yield. (Grab some quality sage seeds at Eden Brothers Organic!)

Plant seeds 1/4-inch deep and 1-inch apart in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Lightly cover with soil and water. Seeds will take about 3-weeks to germinate, keep soil moist.

Another option would be to buy a sage plant from your local nursery or hardware store. This is an easy option if you want to avoid the low germination rates of sage seeds. Be sure to pick a healthy plant with full, green leaves, and always feel free to lift the plant out of the plastic planter and check the roots. Nobody wants to buy a half dead plant.

How to propagate sage plants

Want to propagate a new plant from a friend’s existing sage plant? For best results, start new plants with a cutting from old plants. Cut off a young shoot 3-inches below the leaf crown. Remove lower leaves so the cutting has three pairs of leaves at the top. Place the cut end of the stem into a container of moist potting soil.

Cut the bottom out of a plastic water bottle and place over the cutting to create a mini greenhouse. This will help keep your new plant at a steady temp, and will help to keep the soil from drying out too quickly.

It will take 4-weeks for the cutting to develop a root system and begin to grow. When new growth appears transplant the new sage plant outdoors or into a larger container.

Caring For Sage Plants

Grow sage in a sunny location and provide the plant with plenty of humidity (especially if growing indoors). Plants will need to be misted daily, grown in a grouping with other container plants, or placed in a pebble tray of water to provide the needed humidity.

For outdoor growing, choose a sunny location and plant in the spring, so your plant will be well established before the cooler temperatures comes later in the year.

Mildew, weak stems, and leaf spot are common sage diseases and all of these are caused by improper watering. Don’t get foliage wet when watering plants and allow soil to dry out between watering.

Harvesting and Using Sage

To harvest sage, collect the entire stem by cutting it off near the plant stalk. Use entire stem in recipes, tied into a bouquet (which makes it easy to remove before eating.) You can also strip off leaves, chop, and add to recipes.

Dry sage by bundling 6 cut stems together and tying them to create a bunch. Hang upside down in a warm location to dry, store in an airtight container for later use. See my full post on How to Dry Sage for several methods for drying, including drying in the oven.

Sage is used to add flavor to meat dishes and improve overall health. The herb contains vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K, calcium, and antioxidants. It’s often used to treat digestive issues, improve oral health, lower bad cholesterol, and stabilize blood sugar. The New York Times actually has a delicious recipe for Pasta with Butter, Sage, and Parmesan that you should whip up the next time you’re looking for comfort food with this delicious herb.

So, why wouldn’t you add this versatile and tasty herb to your indoor or outdoor herb garden? I’d love to know if you have any tips for growing or using sage. Comment below to share with our growing community!

Learn to grow other herbs

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