Are you ready to take your canning skills to the next level? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with these 18 delicious and safe canning recipes perfect for beginners. From classic tomato sauce to sweet and tangy pickled cucumbers, our collection has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you through the world of canning, highlighting some of the most popular and easy-to-make recipes that are sure to become staples in your pantry. With a focus on safety and simplicity, these recipes use tried-and-true methods and ingredients to ensure that your canned goods turn out perfect every time.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of canning with us and discover the joy of preserving your favorite flavors all year round.
Classic Tomato Basil Sauce
A simple yet flavorful sauce that brings together the sweetness of tomatoes and the brightness of basil, perfect for pasta, pizza, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have broken down and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Simmer the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Pickled Cucumbers
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these sweet and tangy pickled cucumbers! Perfect as a snack, side dish, or topping for sandwiches and salads.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 fresh cucumbers, sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
– 1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepper
– Fresh dill weed, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and salt. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their excess water.
2. Drain the cucumber slices and rinse them under cold running water. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, water, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the syrup has thickened slightly.
5. Pack the cucumber slices into a clean glass jar, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) at the top. Pour the pickling liquid over the cucumbers, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Store in the fridge for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None
Spicy Jalapeño Pepper Jelly
This sweet and spicy jelly is perfect for topping crackers, using as a glaze for meats, or serving alongside cheese and charcuterie. With its bold flavor and vibrant color, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 4 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, jalapeños, vinegar, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add powdered pectin and stir to combine.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the jelly has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Homemade Apple Butter
Take your apple game to the next level with this simple recipe for homemade apple butter. This spread is perfect for topping toast, using as a filling for cakes and pastries, or as a savory condiment.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (Granny Smith or other sweet-tart varieties work well)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the apple pieces, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is soft (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the apple butter has thickened to your liking.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups of apple butter
Traditional Dill Pickles
Discover the tangy charm of homemade dill pickles with this simple recipe. Perfect for snacking, topping sandwiches, or adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1 cup (250ml) water
– 1/2 cup (125ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
– 2 sprigs fresh dill weed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the cucumbers to release their excess water.
2. Drain the cucumber mixture and rinse with cold running water. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine water, vinegar, sugar, black peppercorns, and dill weed. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack the cucumber mixture into clean glass jars, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the cucumbers, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mild Salsa Verde
This mild salsa verde recipe is a flavorful and tangy condiment perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip. With its delicate balance of herbs and spices, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine parsley, cilantro, jalapeño, and garlic.
2. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly chopped.
3. Add lime juice, salt, and olive oil. Process until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Peach Vanilla Jam
This sweet and tangy peach vanilla jam is perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. With its delicate balance of peach flavors and creamy vanilla undertones, this homemade jam is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, diced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 package (0.25 oz) powdered pectin
Instructions:
1. Combine peaches, sugar, and water in a large saucepan.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Add powdered pectin and stir to combine.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes or until jam has thickened.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Low-Sugar Strawberry Preserves
Make your own low-sugar strawberry preserves at home with this simple recipe! With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy the sweet taste of strawberries without the added refined sugars.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package pectin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse and hull the strawberries, then mash them with a fork until they’re mostly smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the mashed strawberries, honey, water, and lemon juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the preserves have thickened and passed the “wrinkle test” (when you place a small amount on a chilled plate, it should wrinkle when pushed with your finger).
4. If using pectin, stir it in according to package instructions and continue to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Carrot and Ginger Relish
A sweet and spicy condiment perfect for adding a burst of flavor to sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine carrots, ginger, vinegar, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the relish has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Transfer the relish to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blueberry Lemon Curd
This refreshing blueberry lemon curd is perfect for topping toast, scones, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. With its sweet-tart flavor profile, it’s sure to brighten up any breakfast or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries have broken down and the mixture has thickened slightly (about 10 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in softened butter until melted.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm blueberry mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the curd has thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using or storing in an airtight container.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Spread
Roasted Red Pepper Spread Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful spread made from roasted red peppers! This sweet and smoky delight is perfect for topping crackers, sandwiches, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Roast the peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
4. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
6. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted peppers, parsley, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Minty Peach Chutney
This refreshing chutney combines the sweetness of peaches with the cooling flavor of mint, perfect for topping yogurt, naan bread, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine peaches, mint, onion, and garlic.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is soft and fragrant (about 10 minutes).
3. Stir in lemon juice and honey. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
5. Let the chutney cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Dill Green Beans
Quickly elevate your green beans with a flavorful boost from garlic and dill. This simple recipe is perfect for a weeknight side dish or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add green beans to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 8-10 minutes, or until green beans are tender.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped dill.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Cinnamon-Spiced Pear Butter
Elevate your snacking game with this sweet and spicy pear butter, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pears with the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped pears, sugar, and butter.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pears are tender and the mixture is caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
5. Let the mixture cool slightly before transferring it to a blender or food processor.
6. Blend until smooth, then transfer to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tangy Bread and Butter Pickles
These sweet and tangy pickles are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite sandwich or as a crunchy snack on their own.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups thinly sliced dill cucumbers
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon pickling spice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and pickling spice.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine the sugar, vinegar, water, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Add the melted butter to the pickling liquid and stir until dissolved.
5. Pour the pickling liquid over the cucumber mixture and let it sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or refrigerate overnight.
6. Store the pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sweet Corn and Pepper Relish
This sweet and tangy relish is perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip for snacks. With its fresh flavor and vibrant color, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears)
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, bell peppers, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
3. Add apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Toss until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This relish is best served fresh or chilled.
Rosemary-Infused Fig Jam
Elevate your jam game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of figs with the earthy aroma of rosemary. This perfect pairing makes for a delicious spread or topping for toast, yogurt, or cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or dried figs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine figs, sugar, honey, and rosemary.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the jam has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
5. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 2 cups of jam
Classic Homemade Ketchup
Bring back the flavor of childhood with this simple and delicious homemade ketchup recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create a tangy and sweet condiment that’s perfect for topping burgers, fries, or scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, salt, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the ketchup until smooth.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the world of safe canning with these 18 delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From classic tomato basil sauce to peach vanilla jam, and from spicy jalapeño pepper jelly to traditional dill pickles, this collection has something for everyone. Each recipe includes step-by-step instructions and tips for ensuring a safe and successful canning experience. Whether you’re looking to preserve fresh produce, create unique condiments, or stock your pantry with homemade treats, these recipes are sure to inspire and delight.