What to Do with Holiday Leftovers

Safe handling and storage

by Nancy Witting

Company has come and gone, and the refrigerator is jam-packed with leftovers. Chances are the desserts aren't hanging around – it's the big bird with all the fixings you're worrying about. What are you going to do with all that food?

First of all, you should save only the food that has been handled properly. If it was left sitting out at room temperature for more than two hours, it's not safe to eat it! Stuffing should be completely removed and stored separately, and all foods should be carefully wrapped in plastic or foil, or stored in sealable plastic containers. Any food that won't be eaten within four days should be divided into manageable portions and frozen. Another point to remember: When you reheat leftovers, make sure they reach 165 degrees to kill any bacteria – use a thermometer to be certain.

Now for some ideas....