Thanksgiving is so close we can almost taste it. Like many Americans, the National Turkey Federation is eager for a reason to celebrate, and it’s only fitting that our favorite season also comes with lots of delicious turkey…and stuffing…and gravy.
There’s no denying that Thanksgiving will look different this year. Small, festive gatherings are likely to take precedence over large-scale reunions, leaving some to question the practicality of their time-honored traditions amid a global pandemic. But fear not! The way we see it, as long as turkey is on the table, Thanksgiving is full steam ahead.
For many, paring down holiday celebrations remains the logical choice, however, a small–scale feast doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy big flavor! Thankfully, there are a variety of options whether preparing a traditional roast turkey or planning to switch things up.
No matter the size of your Thanksgiving feast, one of the best parts is the array of delicious food left behind long after that second helping (and third). Repurposing Thanksgiving leftovers is a great way to not only savor the holiday but also eliminate tossing out excess food. So, before you reach for the mismatched Tupperware and a fork, double down on Thanksgiving flavor with recipes that put those leftovers to good use.
Ideas for Thanksgiving Leftovers
As tried and true as they may be, turkey sandwiches aren’t the only way to enjoy those holiday extras – although we certainly don’t judge! Thanksgiving Egg Rolls and BBQ Turkey Pizza combine the holiday flavors you love with creative dishes that are fun to make (and eat). Travel through your taste buds with Thai Turkey Pasta or a Turkey Taco Ring.
If fourth meal isn’t exactly your speed, take a break from Black Friday shopping and treat yourself to brunch with Turkey Eggs Benedict served on a bed of stuffing cakes. No matter the time of day, there are countless delicious alternatives to spruce up leftovers in a tasty, creative way.
Safety First
Before enjoying additional days of Thanksgiving deliciousness, it’s important to make sure your leftovers are safe to eat.
Did your team head into an overtime nail-biter? Was that Zoomsgiving video chat a little long? You’ll want to discard any uneaten food that was left out for more than two hours. Seal any salvageable leftovers in storage containers for up to four days in the refrigerator. But let’s be honest, we know they won’t last that long.
Speaking of the fridge…at the holidays, refrigerator shelving is prime real estate. If you’re tight on storage space, Thanksgiving leftovers make festive doggy bags for those who may not have been able to join you on the big day. Plan a socially distant drop-off of holiday favorites for your loved ones. After all, who doesn’t love a surprise food delivery?
No matter how you plan to celebrate during this unusual year, leftovers are the real winners of Thanksgiving – or shall we say the person who gets to take them home.
As we enter this season of good food and fellowship, we’re also reminded of the importance of animal agriculture. We are thankful for the turkey farmers across the country who are dedicated to responsibly raising their flocks and delivering delicious, nutritious turkeys for us to enjoy. From our table to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
Shelby Shaw is the communications manager at the National Turkey Federation. All posts are the opinion of the author and do not necessarily represent the view of the Animal Ag Alliance.
