A guide to loving your leftovers

Ingredients for HelloFresh meals are pre-portioned and packed to reduce waste. You only get exactly what you need! But of course there are still times when you might not be able to finish your dinner. 

Discover some simple tricks to transform unfinished leftovers into a brand new tasty dish.

Cottage Pie

It’s true that leftovers never taste the same the day after. However, if you find yourself with leftover cottage pie, there’s a simple way to transform it. Simply add a spoonful of curry paste to the mixture, for a spicy kick. Then, use this flavourful filling to stuff pasties or pies. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious twist on your original meal. Not only does this method reduce waste, but it also gives you a whole new dish to enjoy. Delicious! For more inspiration, check out this Beef & Spinach Cottage Pie recipe.

Cooked Rice

Rice is an easy one to overestimate when you’re cooking, often leaving you with more than you need. If you find you’ve got some spare, cool it quickly and portion it into freezer bags. This way, you can easily store it for future meals. Next time you’re in need, simply microwave the rice from frozen (make sure it’s piping hot!) and add it to a curry or fried rice. This not only saves time, but also ensures you always have a handy side ready to go. Perfect for quick and easy meals.

Roast Chicken

Spare roast chicken is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Slice it thin for the best sandwiches, shred it for salads, or add it to soups for extra protein. For a hearty meal, pair the chicken with ham and a creamy sauce, for a pie filling that’s sure to satisfy. Simply layer the mixture in a pie crust and bake until golden. This way, you make the most of your roast chicken, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Roasted Veg

Roasted vegetables can be easily reinvented into a new dish. Simply toss the leftover roasted veg with an equal amount of drained chickpeas, then cook for 15 minutes at 180°C. Once done, whizz the mixture with tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil. This creates a delicious vegetable hummus, perfect as a dip or spread. This method not only uses up your leftovers, but also provides a nutritious and tasty snack. For a roasted veggie recipe, see this Lemon Oregano Chicken and Roast Veggie Toss.

Herbs

Reduce waste and save a little money with leftover herbs. Instead of letting them go to waste, try blending wilting herbs with oil and nuts to make a fresh pesto. This not only preserves their flavour but also creates a delicious addition to your meals. You can use this pesto as a pasta sauce, a spread for sandwiches, or even a marinade for meats. It’s a versatile solution that ensures your herbs never go to waste, adding vibrant flavours to your dishes.

Leftover Fish

Leftover fish can be easily transformed into a new meal. Shred up any leftover fish and mix it with mashed potatoes and herbs to make delicious fishcakes. Whether you have cod, smoked haddock, salmon, or a mix, this method works perfectly. Simply form the mixture into patties and pan-fry until golden brown. Serve with a side salad or some tartar sauce for a delightful meal. This way, you enjoy your fish to the fullest, reducing waste and creating something tasty.

Basil

Basil leaves are fantastic in a pasta sauce, even if they’re a little wilted! They add a delicious depth of flavour to any pasta dish, enhancing the overall taste. Simply chop the basil and stir it into your sauce as it cooks. The heat will revive the leaves, releasing their aromatic oils. This simple addition can elevate your pasta to a whole new level. So, don’t throw away those wilted leaves; use them to make your dishes more flavourful and delightful.

Beans and Peas

Add cooked beans and peas to soups or stews to bulk them up. This not only increases the nutritional value but also makes the dish more filling. Simply stir in the beans and peas towards the end of the cooking process to heat them through. They blend seamlessly into the dish, enhancing both texture and flavour. This method is an easy way to make your meals heartier and more satisfying, making the most of your leftover ingredients.

Leftover Spaghetti

Toss leftover spaghetti in oil and freeze single portions for easy lunches. Defrost in the fridge in the morning, and at lunch, simply stir in the veggies of your choice. This not only saves time but also ensures you have a quick and nutritious meal ready to go. You can add anything from roasted vegetables to fresh herbs or create a cheesy pasta bake. It’s a convenient way to enjoy your pasta, reducing waste and providing you with a delicious meal at work or home.

Leftover Mash

Leftover mash and shredded cabbage make the best bubble and squeak cakes. Simply mix the two, form into patties, and fry until golden brown. Top with a fried egg for the perfect weekend brunch. This dish is not only a great way to use up leftovers but also a delicious and hearty meal. The crispy exterior and soft interior make these cakes a real treat. Enjoy a satisfying brunch that’s both resourceful and tasty.