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Holiday Leftover Guide

Keeping Holiday leftovers fresh is similar to Thanksgiving but can include a wider variety of foods like ham, desserts, and festive salads.

Here’s 10 Tips For How To Store and Enjoy Them Safely:

1. Store Leftovers Quickly:

Refrigerate or freeze leftovers within 2 hours of serving to prevent bacteria growth. For large items like ham or roast, carve them into smaller pieces for faster cooling.

2. Store Properly:

Refrigerator:
Use shallow, airtight containers or resealable bags to prevent air exposure and retain moisture.

Wrap meats tightly.

Freeze:
For foods you won’t eat within 3-4 days, use freezer-safe containers or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent freezer burn.

3. Organize the Fridge:

Keep leftovers in the coldest part of the fridge (usually the back). Separate raw items (e.g. uncooked ham) from cooked foods to avoid cross-contamination.

4. Label and Date Everything:

Check expiration dates and consume perishables items promptly.

Practice the “First In, First Out” (FIFO) rule – place newer items at the back and older ones at the front.

5. Reheat Safely:

Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) Soups, stews, and sauces should be brought to a rolling boil. Reheat only the portion you’ll eat to avoid repeated cooling and reheating.

6. Maximize Shelf Life Guidelines:

Refrigerator:

  • Cooked Meats: 3-4 Days
  • Gravy & Sauces: 1-2 Days
  • Salads (with Mayonnaise or
    Cream): 1-2 Days

Freezer:

  • Meats: 2-3 Months
  • Bread & Cakes: 3 Months
  • Sauces & Soups: 2-3 Months

Note: All appliances vary in their cooling. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.

7. Prevent Waste:

Portion leftovers into meal-sized servings before freezing for easy defrosting.

Avoid freezing items that don’t freeze well (e.g. creamy dishes or salads with dressing).

8. Special Tips for Specific Foods:

Ham/Roast Beef: Slice and store separately to retain moisture; glaze or gravy can be frozen alongside for added flavor.

Stuffing or Dressing: Store separately from meats for better texture; reheat in the oven for crispness.

Vegetables: Freeze roasted or steamed vegetables in a single layer first, then transfer to bags.

9. Special Tips For Pies & Desserts:

Custard or cream-based desserts (e.g. tiramisu) should be refrigerated, while fruit pies can be frozen for longer storage.

10. Get Creative With Leftovers:

Turn roast meats into sandwiches, wraps, or soups.

Repurpose roasted vegetables in frittatas, quiches, or pasta dishes.

Use leftover desserts in trifles or milkshakes.

Watch Bill and Kari as they share tips for your refrigerator and ice maker:

Bill Cummins

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