master-cooks | The Tip You Should Know To Successfully Meal Prep Frozen Greens

Meal prepping with frozen greens is a convenient and nutritious way to maintain a healthy diet without the hassle of frequent grocery shopping. To make the most of frozen greens, begin by selecting high-quality products. Look for brands that flash-freeze their vegetables, as this process preserves nutrients and flavor. Before incorporating frozen greens into your meal prep, consider thawing them slightly under cold running water or in the fridge. This step can help remove excess ice crystals and prevent a watery texture in your dishes. When cooking, add the greens directly to the pan or pot from frozen, or incorporate them into soups, stews, and casseroles, where they can easily blend into the dish. If you're using them in salads or as toppings, ensure they are fully thawed and drained to maintain the desired consistency. Season the greens well, as freezing can sometimes dull their natural flavors. Experiment with herbs, spices, and a touch of citrus to enhance their taste. Finally, store your meals properly in airtight containers, ensuring they are cooled before sealing to prevent condensation. By following these tips, you can enjoy the convenience and health benefits of frozen greens in your meal prep routine.

How to blanch your greens to freeze

As always, start by thoroughly rinsing your greens in water. Remove any unwanted stems by tearing them off or using a sharp knife if you prefer. (Your final recipe will likely require discarding the stems.) In a large pot, bring about 2 quarts of salted water to a boil. Using a colander or a steamer basket, which is a great alternative to a steamer pot, blanch lighter greens for about one minute and heartier greens for two minutes. Afterward, drain them and transfer to an ice bath for a couple of minutes. Once cooled, dry the greens thoroughly; moisture is the enemy of frozen vegetables, just as it is with fresh ones. Roll and squeeze them in paper towels several times to remove as much liquid as possible.

To finish, shape the blanched greens into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Give them another good squeeze to remove excess water, then freeze. (If the leaves are too unwieldy to shape, run a knife through them a few times.) Alternatively, you can portion the greens into a large silicone ice tray or a muffin tin. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag to save space. Enjoy your meal-prepped veggies in pasta, on pizza, or in soups, stews, and other dishes that require greens for up to one year.

The Tip You Should Know To Successfully Meal Prep Frozen Greens

How to blanch your greens to freeze

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