Thursday, November 24, 2011

Thanksgiving-What about those leftovers?

One of the biggest holiday problems facing this country today is what to do about the over 400 trillion pounds of leftover food that will be generated by the Thanksgiving holiday. Sadly, more that 98% will eventually find it's way to a waste receptacle and, although generally I support wasting of any kind, I find this to be unacceptable. After doing some extensive research I have come up with some quick and easy recipes to use this leftover food without having to eat the same thing over and over again until Christmas.

Holiday Sandwich:
    
     This twist on a classic (the leftover turkey between 2 slices of bread) takes sandwich eating to a new level. You start with a slice of bread, add the turkey, then pile on the rest of your Thanksgiving leftover including (but not limited to) mashed potatoes, corn, green beans, dinner rolls, cranberry sauce, and even pumpkin pie. Afterward simply place another slice of bread on top, add a nice garnish, and enjoy! You can change things up even further by adding gravy, whipped cream, or both over the top.

Post-Thanksgiving Salad:

     This recipe goes against my normal stance on salad eating (which is to not do so) but I feel like some will enjoy this "healthy" twist on Thanksgiving leftovers so I have included it. As with the Holiday sandwich you take a sample from all your leftover choices (including dessert) and throw them in a bowl. Mix together with a couple of lettuce leaves, add some croutons, and you have yourself a fresh new way to utilize that food. If you are a "health savvy" individual you can feel good about this healthy choice.

Leftover Shake:

     Many people who take advantage of Black Friday deals or that work in retail and have to work on Black Friday will appreciate this convenient, on the go alternative to the traditional leftover plate. As with the other mentioned ideas you take all your Thanksgiving leftover choices and throw them in a blender. After blending on the puree setting for 48-67 seconds (or until desired consistency) pour into a cup and off you go! Unlike the other dish ideas you may want to include your favorite drink in the mix as well, covering all your on the go needs.

     There are many other recipes, but these are just a few I have not seen get a lot of media attention. If you have an idea you would like to share with the audience please leave a comment. Thank you as always and have a Merry Thanksgiving!