Herbs, herbs, herbs.....

I am constantly cutting back my oregano, basil and parsley.  Some I use fresh, some I freeze, some I dry in the microwave.  The plants get out of control at this time of year and I want to savor as much as I can.   

Drying herbs in the microwave is very quick and easy.  I wash and dry the leaves and lay them on a paper plate or paper towel:

I microwave a minute at a time, and then toss them about, and microwave until they are dry and crispy.

We were going out of town for a week, so I cut back my herbs. This particular time I put together the herbs and seasonings to make fresh tomato sauce when we return home.  I added my homemade Basil Salt, black pepper, crushed red peppers and dried garlic:  

I stored it all in a jar:

I froze the rest of the herbs in individual freezer baggies.

When we got home from our week in Ohio we picked up a few large tomatoes, a pepper and an onion at the local market, and I made a little pot of sauce for two!  This seasoning (above) was added and it was delish!!

You can do the same with cherry tomatoes and not use the emulsifier.   I find it is much sweeter with cherry tomatoes:

Quick and easy - and delish!

MacKenzie-Childs Courtly Check Enamel Dinner Plate.      Buy Now: