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Love Your Leftovers

Cook once, eat twice! Here’s how to make the most out of your meals by storing leftovers and reheating them so they’re just as good the second time around.
leftovers Meal Prep how to reheat

TO STORE MEALS:

  • Use shallow containers or freezer bags to help leftovers freeze more quickly and reheat evenly.
  • Divide food into the number of portions you plan to eat later so you’ll only need to reheat what you need.
  • For food safety, refrigerate or freeze food as soon as it cools to room temperature.
  • Label containers with name and date (use painter’s tape and a permanent marker) so you’ll know exactly what’s inside.  If necessary, also include reheating instructions.

TO REHEAT:

ON THE STOVE:

  • Add a splash of liquid–anything from water to broth, olive oil, or milk–to add moisture and prevent foods from sticking to the pan.
  • Cover with a lid to trap heat and create steam.
  • Stir frequently to ensure even reheating.

IN THE OVEN:

  • Set the oven no higher than 350°F to keep meats and roasted veggies from drying out.
  • Cover foods loosely with foil to trap heat, especially dense dishes like lasagna and casseroles.
  • Don’t forget the broiler!  Use it to re-crisp pizza, breaded, or fried foods.

IN THE MICROWAVE:

  • Place a damp paper towel over the plate to create steam.
  • Place food in a single layer to make sure it reheats evenly—if reheating items like burgers, for instance, separate the burger from the bun.
  • Cook in 1-minute intervals, stirring or turning the food after each burst, to encourage even heating and avoid hot and cold spots.

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