Christmas lunch is the gift that keeps on giving – don’t throw those delicious dishes out, we’ve got a few simple and fun ways to breathe new life into your favourites! From casseroles to an anything-goes frittata, we’ve got you covered.

The joy of Christmas extends beyond the day itself, spilling into the much-anticipated Boxing Day—a time to unwind, relax, and, of course, indulge in the remnants of the festive feast. As you peer into the refrigerator, laden with the treasures of Christmas leftovers, consider turning those remnants into nifty, mouth-watering creations. In a world increasingly attuned to the importance of sustainability, Boxing Day provides the perfect canvas for a culinary journey that not only delights the taste buds but also contributes to a more environmentally conscious approach to holiday celebrations.

Repurposing Christmas leftovers is a delightful way to minimise food waste, stretch your culinary imagination, and, let's not forget, save a few extra pennies during the holiday season. Embracing a sustainable approach to Boxing Day not only aligns with the ethos of reducing our carbon footprint but also reflects a commitment to making the most of every ingredient, preventing excess from ending up in the bin. So, let's embark on a gastronomic adventure, turning Christmas leftovers into culinary wonders that not only warm the soul but also echo the melody of sustainability, preventing waste, and saving money. 

Turkey and Vegetable Casserole

Ingredients:

• Leftover turkey, shredded
• Roasted vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, potatoes), diced
• Gravy
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a casserole dish, combine shredded turkey, diced roasted vegetables, and cooked quinoa or rice.
3. Pour leftover gravy over the mixture, ensuring it's evenly distributed.
4. Top with shredded cheese and sprinkle fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve this comforting casserole warm, savouring the rich flavours of Christmas.

Christmas Frittata

Ingredients:

• Leftover roasted vegetables (potatoes, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers)
• Shredded turkey or ham
• 8 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated cheese (cheddar or Gruyère)
• Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F or 190°C.
2. In a large ovenproof skillet, arrange the leftover roasted vegetables and shredded turkey or ham.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and turkey in the skillet.
5. Sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
6. Cook on the stovetop over medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing the edges to set.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the frittata is set and golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Slice and enjoy this Christmas frittata.

Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake

Ingredients:

• Cooked pasta (penne or fusilli)
• Leftover shredded turkey
• Leftover roasted vegetables, diced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F or 190°C.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded turkey, diced roasted vegetables, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
5. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Remove from the oven, sprinkle fresh basil on top, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Delight in the flavours of Christmas with this hearty turkey pasta bake.
9. These Christmas frittata and pasta bake recipes provide a delightful twist to your holiday leftovers, ensuring that every bite is a continuation of the festive culinary celebration. Enjoy the delicious medley of flavours and textures as you savour the warmth of the season in every bite.

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