Stretch those garden leftovers!
In April you can’t wait to taste the first tomato. By September you are sick of tomatoes and wondering if you can eat another one. If you are looking for a little variety or if you just want to make use of your garden items after the cool weather sets in, use these ideas to put those summer leftovers to good use!
Watermelon Pickles
3 pounds white portion watermelon rind, cubed
5 cups sugar
2 cups cider vinegar
1 cup water
1 Tbsp. whole cloves
1 Tbsp. whole allspice
3 cinnamon sticks, 3 inches each
1 lemon, sliced
Put watermelon cubes in a large pot with enough salted water to cover. Soak overnight. Drain. Cover with fresh, cold water and bring to a boil. Cook over low heat until tender. Drain. In another large pot, combine sugar, vinegar and water. Tie cloves, allspice, cinnamon and lemon in a cheesecloth bag. Add to sugar mixture and stir over medium heat until mixture boils. Boil 5 minutes. Add watermelon cubes and simmer until translucent, about 15 minutes. Remove spice bag and pack pickles in hot, sterilized jars. Refrigerate 2 weeks before using. Makes 4 quarts.
Salsa
4 cups tomatoes (canned with juice may also be used)
1 green pepper, chopped
1 large onion, diced
2 to 3 Tbsp. lime juice (to taste)
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
2 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped
1 small, fresh jalapeno pepper, minced
salt and pepper
Cook all the ingredients in a large saucepan on medium heat for 20 minutes. Pour into hot, sterile quart jars and seal. Process in a pressure canner for 25 minutes. We use salsa frequently enough that we don’t have to can it. If you don’t can it, store it in the refrigerator. Makes 3 pints.
Photo By: tompagenet
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