Regardless of whether your Thanksgiving dinner involves your entire extended family or an intimate gathering for two, it seems that there is always tons of leftover food. Don't fret about it because there is absolutely no need for the food to go to waste. Leftover turkey is not only delicious - it's healthy and versatile, too!
Turkey is Good for You
Turkey is a lean white meat recommended by doctors and dietitians in just about all sensible eating plans. We all worry about packing on extra pounds on Thanksgiving and throughout the holidays, but rest assured that turkey is not a diet buster. It is a great source of lean protein that helps build muscle while satisfying hunger.
Unlike red meat, turkey actually works to lower cholesterol levels while strengthening the immune system at the same time. Our immune systems can all use the extra boost this time of year. Turkey is also a valuable source of antioxidants, potassium, zinc, iron and phosphorous - just about everything the doctor ordered. TV fitness trainer Jillian Michaels is a big fan of turkey and lists skinless turkey as one of her favorite weight loss foods.
Endless Possibilities for Leftover Turkey Recipes
There is much more to Thanksgiving leftovers than just turkey soup and sandwiches. Use your imagination and different seasonings to come up with your own recipes. Try a turkey calzone or turkey with Asian seasonings and rice. Maybe go the Mexican route with turkey tacos and enchiladas. Websites such as allrecipes.com provide hundreds of recipes for turkey leftovers along with user reviews. A few of this year's highest-rated recipes include Sweet Leftover Turkey Salad, Grandma Carlson's Turkey Pot Pie and Zippy and Tangy Turkey Rice Soup.
Leftovers are an Excuse for a Party
The fastest way to clean out a refrigerator is to invite a few friends over to share the leftovers. Keep it casual and just put out the food and enjoy the company of a few close friends with leftovers and a glass of wine. It's a fun way to maintain the Thanksgiving holiday glow the day after the big event.
When storing turkey and any leftovers, make sure to follow the safety protocols for leftover food storage. All leftovers should be frozen or refrigerated immediately following the meal in order to prevent food poisoning and harmful bacteria growth.
Many things in life are actually better the second time around and delicious turkey leftovers are one of them. Get a little creative with your leftovers this year and dazzle friends and family with your culinary ingenuity.
Happy Thanksgiving! Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and relaxing holiday.
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