For college students juggling studies, social life and a budget, food waste can often become an overlooked expense. Here are a few creative, easy ways to make the most of leftovers and reduce food waste.
- Turn Leftovers into New Meals: Transform last night’s dinner into something fresh and exciting. Leftover veggies can be added to scrambled eggs, made into a frittata or tossed into a wrap. If you have rice, consider making fried rice or even stuffed peppers by mixing it with cheese, herbs or beans.
- Make a Versatile Soup or Stew: Combine leftover veggies, grains or proteins into a hearty soup. Simply add broth, seasonings and spices to craft a delicious meal from bits and pieces in your fridge.
- Freeze for Later: If you can’t finish your leftovers, freeze them. Soups, sauces and cooked rice freeze well. Label each container with the date to keep track of freshness and ensure you have a variety of options for busy days.
- Snack on Veggie Scraps: Instead of tossing vegetable stems, leaves or peels, roast them with a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper to make crunchy, healthy snacks. Carrot tops, potato skins and beet greens are all perfect candidates.
- Use Fruit in Smoothies: Overripe fruits may not be appetizing on their own, but they are great for smoothies. Just blend them with a bit of yogurt or juice and you have a quick, nutritious snack.
Making a habit of repurposing food not only saves money but also benefits the environment by reducing food waste. With a little creativity, you will find endless ways to turn leftovers into appetizing meals.
