If you’ve got a dehydrator collecting dust or you’re simply ready to make the most of your summer harvest and grocery hauls, this is for you. Most of us think of the usual suspects when it comes to dehydrating food, apples, bananas, maybe even some herbs. But there’s a whole world of flavor-packed foods waiting to be dried and stored for later.
Dehydrating is a simple, efficient way to preserve food without the need for electricity (after the drying, of course), a freezer, or fancy canning equipment. It’s a homesteader’s dream, a frugal foodie’s secret weapon, and a prepper’s staple. And let’s be honest, it’s also just kind of fun. Especially when you experiment with foods you never even thought to dry in the first place.
Whether you’re looking to stock your pantry, prepare for emergencies, or just enjoy healthy snacks that don’t require refrigeration, this list is full of creative, useful, and downright tasty ideas. So, roll up your sleeves and get your dehydrator trays ready, here are 15 surprising foods you can dehydrate this summer.
A note about dehydrators: I used a small dehydrator for 8 years before switching over to a larger stainless-steel variety. I love my current workhorse, but I got a lot of years out of my Nesco that was under $100! Buy the best your budget can allow for because a small unit might be just fine for awhile.
Avocados
Yes, you can dehydrate avocados. They’re not just for guacamole anymore. While they won’t retain their creamy texture, they make excellent powder for adding healthy fats and flavor to smoothies, dressings, and sauces. Slice thinly or puree and spread in sheets before drying.
Tip: Use ripe avocados, but not mushy. Add lemon juice to reduce browning.
Pickles
Sliced dill pickles become crunchy, tangy chips after a trip through the dehydrator. They make a flavorful snack and are a great conversation starter at gatherings.
Tip: Pat them dry before dehydrating to reduce drying time. Use homemade pickles if you want to avoid additives.
Yogurt
Make your own yogurt drops or roll-ups for a tangy, protein-rich snack. Mix in some mashed fruit or honey before spreading it thin on a tray lined with parchment or a silicone mat.
Tip: Store in airtight containers with a moisture absorber to keep them crispy.
Tomato Slices or Skins
Most people know about sun-dried tomatoes, but don’t overlook tomato skins. They’re often tossed out during canning but dehydrate into a vibrant powder that adds umami and color to soups, stews, and sauces.
Tip: Use cherry tomatoes for sweet little bites or save skins from your homegrown canning adventures.
Zucchini and Squash
Zucchini is the summer vegetable that just won’t quit—and that’s a good thing! Dehydrated zucchini chips are perfect for snacking or tossing into soups.
Tip: Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs before drying.
Cucumber Slices
Cucumbers are full of water, so you might not think they’re a good fit for dehydrating. But once dried, they make light, crispy chips. They don’t have a strong flavor on their own, which makes them a great base for seasonings.
Tip: Salt them lightly before drying to help pull out moisture and add flavor.
Watermelon
Dehydrated watermelon is nature’s candy. It concentrates all that summer sweetness into chewy fruit leather-like strips. A favorite with kids and adults alike.
Tip: Cut into thin slices and remove seeds before drying. It takes longer than other fruits but is worth the wait.
Canned Pineapple
Have extra canned fruit in your pantry? Drain and pat dry canned pineapple before dehydrating. It’s sweet, tangy, and perfect for trail mixes.
Tip: Look for fruit canned in juice, not syrup, for a more natural treat.
Cooked Rice or Quinoa
This one’s for the backpackers and busy meal preppers. Cooked rice or quinoa can be dehydrated and rehydrated later in minutes with boiling water. It’s also great for camping or off-grid meals.
Tip: Spread it thin in a single layer and stir a few times during drying to ensure even dehydration.
Green Beans
Blanched green beans can be dried for long-term storage or used as a crunchy snack. They rehydrate well for soups and casseroles.
Tip: Cut into uniform pieces and blanch before dehydrating to preserve color and texture.
Pumpkin Puree
Have some leftover pumpkin from baking? Dehydrate it into sheets and then blend into a powder. This pumpkin powder can be rehydrated for baking or added directly to oatmeal and smoothies.
Tip: Spread evenly and use nonstick trays or parchment paper.
Lemon and Lime Slices or Zest
Add zing to tea, water, or baked goods with dried citrus slices or zest. They store beautifully in jars and make great gifts too.
Tip: Wash well before zesting or slicing. Avoid the bitter white pith when zesting.
Eggplant
This summer vegetable becomes a lightweight pantry staple when dehydrated. Use in casseroles, pasta dishes, or grind into a flour substitute for savory baked goods.
Tip: Salt and rinse eggplant slices before drying to reduce bitterness.
How to Grow Eggplant in Your Backyard
Cooked Beans
Cooked beans (black, kidney, pinto) can be dehydrated for shelf-stable storage. They’re perfect for homemade backpacking meals or quick soups.
Tip: Dry until they’re completely brittle and store with a moisture absorber.
Fresh Basil or Pesto
You might already dehydrate herbs, but fresh basil can be tricky. Try making a simple pesto (omit the cheese), spread it thin, and dry into a sheet. Break into flakes and use it like a seasoning.
Tip: Freeze any oil-heavy pestos if you don’t want to dry them. But for shelf-stable basil goodness, this method is gold.
Carrot Top Pesto Easy Delicious Straight from the Garden
A Few Extra Tips for Dehydrating in the Summer
- Use what you have: Don’t go out and buy special ingredients. Look through your garden, fridge, or pantry. Even leftovers can be transformed into shelf-stable snacks.
- Dry in small batches: Especially if you’re testing something new. Not every experiment is a winner, and you don’t want to waste food.
- Humidity matters: Summer humidity can slow drying time or even cause mold if your dehydrator isn’t powerful enough. Make sure your machine is in a well-ventilated area or consider using it during drier parts of the day.
- Storage is key: Once food is dried, cool it completely before storing in airtight containers. Add oxygen absorbers or silica packets if you’re storing long-term.
Why Dehydrate These Foods?
Dehydrating helps prevent food waste, saves you money, and gives you convenient access to healthy options year-round. It’s also a great way to take advantage of summer’s abundance when your garden or local farmers’ market is overflowing.
And best of all? You’re in control of what goes into your food, no preservatives, no mystery ingredients, and no unnecessary sugars.
Whether you’re building your emergency pantry, prepping for the school year, or just love having wholesome snacks on hand, dehydrating might just become your favorite kitchen hobby.
Foods You Can Dehydrate This Summer
Summer is the perfect time to start (or continue) dehydrating food. It’s easy, satisfying, and a great way to feel more in control of your kitchen and your food budget. These 15 surprising foods offer a fresh take on what can be dried and stored, get creative, have fun, and enjoy the process.
If you’ve never dehydrated anything beyond bananas, now’s the time to experiment. And if you’ve already been drying your own herbs and apples, challenge yourself to try one or two new items from this list.
Dehydrating isn’t just about saving food, it’s about learning skills, being resourceful, and savoring the best flavors of the season long after the harvest has passed.
