Citrus Herb Veggie Wash Recipe

Water: The base of the wash, used to dilute the other ingredients.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh citrus scent and has natural antibacterial properties.

White vinegar: Helps to kill bacteria and remove pesticides.

Baking soda: Acts as a gentle abrasive to help scrub away dirt.

Tea tree oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, enhancing the cleaning power of the wash.

When adding baking soda to the mixture, do so slowly and in small amounts to prevent it from fizzing over. This reaction occurs because baking soda is a base and lemon juice is an acid, and their combination releases carbon dioxide gas. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.

• water - Substitute with distilled water: Distilled water is free from impurities and chemicals, making it a purer option for washing veggies.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice has a similar acidic profile and can effectively help in cleaning and adding a fresh scent to the veggies.

• white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has similar acidic properties and can help in removing residues and bacteria from the veggies.

• baking soda - Substitute with salt: Salt can act as an abrasive cleaner and has natural antibacterial properties, making it a good alternative for washing veggies.

• tea tree oil - Substitute with lavender essential oil: Lavender essential oil has antimicrobial properties and provides a pleasant aroma, making it a suitable substitute for tea tree oil in a veggie wash.

• Ensure the citrus herb veggie wash is stored in a clean, airtight container to maintain its effectiveness and prevent contamination.
• Keep the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to preserve the potency of the tea tree oil and lemon juice.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating the mixture. This can help extend its shelf life and keep the ingredients fresh.
• If you notice any changes in the smell or appearance of the wash, it's best to discard it and make a fresh batch.
• When freezing, pour the veggie wash into ice cube trays for easy portioning. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the container with the date of preparation to keep track of its freshness.
• Thaw the frozen cubes in the refrigerator or at room temperature before use. Give the mixture a good stir to recombine any separated ingredients.
• Avoid storing the wash in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can degrade the essential oils and reduce its effectiveness.
• Always shake or stir the wash before each use to ensure the baking soda and other ingredients are well-mixed.
• For best results, use the citrus herb veggie wash within two weeks if stored at room temperature, or up to a month if refrigerated.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your leftover vegetables on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly mist with water to prevent drying out. Cover with aluminum foil and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

• For a quick and efficient method, use a microwave. Place your leftover veggies in a microwave-safe dish. Add a splash of water and cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or water to the pan. Add your leftover vegetables and sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

• For those who enjoy a bit of a crispy texture, use an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place your leftover veggies in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Bowl: Use this to combine the water, lemon juice, and white vinegar.

• Measuring cup: This is essential for accurately measuring 1 cup of water.

• Measuring spoons: These will help you measure 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda.

• Stirring spoon: Use this to mix all the ingredients together thoroughly.

• Dropper: This will help you add exactly 5 drops of tea tree oil.

• Colander: Use this to hold your veggies while you wash them with the mixture.

• Running water: Essential for rinsing the veggies thoroughly after washing them with the mixture.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out the water, lemon juice, white vinegar, and baking soda beforehand to streamline the process.

Use a spray bottle: Mix the solution in a spray bottle for easy application and quicker coverage of your veggies.

Batch wash: Wash multiple vegetables at once to save time rather than washing each one individually.

Pre-rinse veggies: Give your vegetables a quick rinse before applying the wash to remove any loose dirt and debris.

Store solution: Make a larger batch of the veggie wash and store it in the fridge for future use.