By Nancy Vallarella
Fall harvest season is here!
As we say goodbye to summer, there’s no need to leave behind the vibrant flavors it brought us. Fresh herbs are like a bouquet for your senses—an experience that lingers in every bite. Whether you’ve lovingly tended your own garden or want to savor store-bought herbs, these simple techniques will let you relive that summer magic all winter long.
Preserving the Flavors of Summer
Preserving herbs is easier than you think. You don’t need fancy gadgets or complicated steps—just a few simple techniques to lock in those aromas and flavors for months to come. By using fats like extra virgin olive oil or butter, layering with salt, freezing, or drying, you can capture that fresh essence effortlessly
Herb Bark – A Genius Idea!
Gardener Matthew Ambrosio of North Babylon has an amazing tip to share—Herb Bark! He made this technique popular on Facebook, and it’s a must-try for any herb lover. Inspired by his partner Seth’s passion for cooking, Matthew uses herbs like rosemary, basil, and oregano to create these flavor-packed squares. No need for special trays—just a half sheet pan and parchment paper!
What You’ll Need:
• 2 cups fresh herbs
• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
Directions:
- Line a half sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Blend ¾ cup olive oil with 2 cups of fresh herbs until combined. Add more oil until it forms a spreadable paste.
- Spread the mixture on the pan to ¼ inch thickness and score into 2×2 inch squares.
- Freeze until completely solid. Break apart into squares and store in a freezer bag.
Each square renders approximately 3 tablespoons of flavor-packed herbs!
Basil Pesto Bark – Another Delicious Option
Ingredients:
• 3 cups of basil leaves, packed
• 2 cups extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup toasted pine nuts
• 2-3 cloves garlic
• ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
- Line a half sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Blend 1 ½ cups olive oil, basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic until smooth. Fold in parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture on the pan, score into squares, and freeze.
- Break apart and store in the freezer.
Each square delivers approximately 3 tablespoons of rich, savory pesto!
Matthew’s Expert Tips:
- Harvest herbs before they flower for the best flavor.
- Use single-source extra virgin olive oil for quality.
- Make sure the blade of your blending device is submerged in oil before adding solids.
- Defrost frozen herbs at room temperature to use on pizza, sandwiches, in tapenade, or hummus.
- Drop frozen squares directly into soups, stocks, or pasta—they melt quickly!
- These make the perfect homemade host gift!
Savor the Flavors of Summer, All Year Long!
Whether you’re adding a burst of flavor to your winter dishes or gifting some summer magic, will keep the essence of the season alive.
