Whether it is post-holiday or just following another home cooked meal, we often find ourselves faced with a dilemma on what to do with leftovers. We can all agree that simply having the “same meal” over and over is nothing but monotonous and annoying. However using that initial food and transforming it into something new and exciting is very quick and easy way to get you in and out of the kitchen in no time!
Personally I can’t think of anything better than leftovers.
In fact, I purposely prepare and cook larger than needed batches of food whenever I’m in the kitchen for the sole purpose of not having to spend so much time in the kitchen the following days. Also, when making a Costco run, I always return with two rotisserie chickens, (who can resist???…they are so tasty and affordable!).
Here are my top 10 ways to use leftovers:
1. Burritos: Who doesn’t love burritos? Whether you have leftover meat, fish or poultry…or simply fresh veggies or grains on hand, it takes only a minute to warm up a whole grain tortilla along with some melted cheese and from there the leftover ideas to include are endless! Once heated, roll the filled tortilla off of the skillet onto your plate, top with some fresh greens, salsa and maybe avocado and you have one outstanding entrée that includes all of the food groups!
2. Tacos: Use same premise as above but use a crispy taco shell, or different style of tortilla or wrap. This is a fun event to get the entire family involved, as they can each make their own meal.
3. Stir Fry: Heat leftovers in a wok, add fresh veggies, Asian spices and sesame seeds then serve over whole grain rice, pasta or quinoa. This can also be wrapped in rice paper and served as a spring roll.
4. Freeze: Make your own TV dinners! Plate an entire meal with the exception of fresh greens, vacuum seal and freeze. What a great meal to have on hand when things get busy!
5. Soup: What is better than homemade soup? Before tossing out the poultry bones, make homemade stock and freeze in gallon Ziploc bags or in ice trays for quick uses.
6. Casserole: Chicken divan, turkey tetrazzini, scalloped potatoes and ham or enchilada casserole. The possibilities are endless!
7. Fajitas: Heat a skillet, toss in leftovers, add bell peppers and onions and serve with whole grain tortilla. Yum!
8. Omelets: Eggs are a complete protein and perfect anytime of the day. Omelets, quiches or a quick scramble with whatever is in the refrigerator can be an awesome and tasty quick meal.
9. Sandwiches: Leftover meat is a given for the option of open faced sandwiches, grilled Panini, French dips or traditional style meals.
10. Fried Rice: This can easily be transformed into meat options, scrambled eggs or vegetarian. Toss cooked rice into hot skillet or wok, sear until browned then add any and all ingredients that meet your cravings. This too can be a nutritionally complete and easy meal to prepare.
No matter what recipes you find yourself preparing, remember to make additional servings in order to quickly enable the transform of initial food items into new scrumptious and healthy meals that will nourish you and your family for days to come.
