Let’s face it, leftover foods get a bad rap. What if those leftovers were reimagined 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. Visit us online at www.http://uaf.edu/ces/districts/kenai/, call us at 907-262-5824, or stop by our office at 43691 K-Beach Rd, Suite A, for a handout on using leftovers creatively. Submitted by Amorette Payment, UAF Cooperative Extension Service, Nutrition Educator, Kenai Peninsula District.