Planning for Christmas Leftovers


Lemon Poppy Seed Quick Bread Ingredients
Image by savorytart via Flickr

I am a firm believer in planning for leftovers when making holiday meals. I simply cook extra of everything, to be used over the few days after the holiday. By using this tactic, I am able to free up time for putting away holiday items and, well, relaxing. Anything that won’t be used within that few day period, is promptly frozen for later use.

What you plan for leftovers will depend on what you want to make for the big day. These ideas will help you to plan to have quick, easy foods to prepare. The supply should last two to three days. Your first step is in determining how much each person will realistically be able to eat on Christmas, then you will have to figure out what you will need thereafter. Usually, people will consume more on Christmas day than they will each day after.

Breakfast Ideas:

  • Fruit pie slices with coffee, tea or milk.
  • Bread slices (Homemade quick breads, etc.) with juice or tea.
  • French toast using the quick breads, a piece of fruit and a glass of milk.

Lunch Ideas:

  • Homemade white or wheat bread sandwiches with leftover meat as their base, with iced tea or milk.
  • Fruit salad, quick bread and flavored butter, and milk or tea.
  • Tortilla topped with shredded cheese and leftover meat and vegetables, and a glass of milk or iced tea.

Dinner Ideas:

  • Stew made from leftover fruits and vegetables, with a glass of milk.
  • A casserole with the leftover vegetables and meat. Top with leftover mashed potato and a little shredded cheese. Serve with leftover bread and flavored butter, as well as a glass of iced tea.
  • Create a one pan meal using meat and vegetable leftovers. Serve with a side salad and a glass of milk.

If you have any ideas for Christmas leftovers, post the recipes and tips in the comments.

Enjoy the holidays!

Shannon

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