Leftover love  

In today’s world, where the cost-of-living crisis continues to cripple family budgets and where food waste has become a significant environmental and social concern, using leftovers creatively is both practical and responsible. By transforming yesterday’s meals into new dishes, you can save money, reduce waste, and enjoy a variety of flavours. 

Let’s start with breakfast. Roasted vegetables can be added to omelettes or frittatas, while day-old bread can be turned into French toast or croutons for salads. Anything can become a ‘hash’ if you reheat it and fry or poach an egg for the top! 

One of the simplest ways to repurpose leftovers is by turning them into soups or stews. For example, leftover chicken can be shredded and added to a broth along with vegetables and pasta for a hearty chicken noodle soup. Similarly, cooked rice and vegetables can form the base of a delicious fried rice or a flavourful stir-fry. 

One-pot wonders such as casseroles are another excellent way to reinvent leftovers. Combining cooked meats, vegetables, and grains with cheese or a creamy sauce creates a filling and satisfying dish. A shepherd’s pie, for instance, can be made by layering leftover meat and vegetables with mashed potatoes. 

Wraps and sandwiches are quick and versatile options too. Leftover roast meats, such as chicken or beef, can be thinly sliced and paired with fresh greens, condiments, or sauces for a delicious meal or snack. Leftover curries, beans, or chili can also be used as fillings for tacos or burritos. 

By looking at leftovers as opportunities rather than scraps, you can stretch your meals and dollars further and foster a more sustainable lifestyle. 

Through creativity and a little planning, the possibilities for leftover transformations are endless, making it easier to waste less while enjoying more.