Let’s face it, leftover foods get a bad rap. What if those leftovers were re-imagined and turned into something different; would they be more appealing? When last night’s roast chicken becomes tonight’s fajitas, it seems like a delicious new meal. Here are some tips for reinventing leftovers:

— Slice or chop a small quantity of meat to make it stretch further.

— Add veggies and grains that are different than what was served with the previous meal.

— Can the leftovers be turned into a soup, stew, stir-fry or casserole?

— Make a large salad and top it with leftover chicken, fish, or other protein.

— Use leftovers to stuff hot baked potatoes; top with grated cheese for an instant crowd-pleaser.

— Making a casserole? Double the recipe and freeze one to bake and serve later.

Stop by our office at 43961 K-Beach Rd., Suite A, Soldotna, AK 99669 or call us at 907-262-5824 for a handout on using leftovers creatively.

Submitted by Amorette Payment, UAF Cooperative Extension Service, Nutrition Educator, Kenai Peninsula District.