Thanksgiving is just right around the corner! Soon you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal with your family and friends. You may already be daydreaming about turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
After the feast, what can you do with all the leftover turkey? A lot! Use the leftover turkey to create meals and snacks for the following days. White meat turkey is an excellent source of lean protein. You don’t have to let it go to waste.
Leftover Turkey Recipes
Need some creative ideas for how to use the turkey leftovers? Here a few recipes to get you brainstorming.
- Southwestern Turkey Soup
- Turkey and Corn Enchiladas
- Turkey, Spinach, and Apple Wrap
- Turkey Pot Pie with Cornbread Crust
You can also add turkey to any salad or sandwich. Did you know that the American Institute for Cancer Research recommends avoiding processed meat? Using slices of leftover meats prepared fresh at home (like Thanksgiving turkey) lets you avoid processed, deli-style meats.
Don’t forget about your other leftover foods either! You can add cranberries to salads and soups as well. If you made pumpkin pie from scratch, season and bake the pumpkin seeds to create a tasty snack or add them trail mix.
Storing Leftovers Safely
If you plan to eat any leftovers in the days following Thanksgiving, it’s important to save foods safely. Leftovers need to be stored correctly to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Here are some simple guidelines to follow:
- Store food within 1-2 hours of serving. Don’t leave it sitting uncovered on the counter all day.
- Store meats and casseroles first.
- Keep cold foods at 40 degrees or less.
- Keep hot foods at 140 degrees or more.
- Seek immediate medical help if you have symptoms of a foodborne illness such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Remember, don’t let leftover food go to waste, and be sure to save leftovers safely. Enjoy being with family and friends and take a moment to think of all the things you are thankful for this holiday season.
From everyone here at PearlPoint Cancer Support, we wish you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!
