One of the best joys of the festive season has got to be the delicious food to be had. From mince pies that melt in your mouth, to the golden roast potatoes and scrumptious vegetables in a Christmas dinner. Feeling hungry yet? We certainly are. 

Of course, with an incredible feast comes the inevitable moment that you realise your eyes are bigger than your belly - oops! So, if you find yourself on Boxing Day surrounded by more leftovers than you imagined, then don’t worry. We’ve got some super tasty recipe ideas to use up all of the leftover Christmas food and minimise your waste this festive season.

Turkey Curry

A curry is the perfect way to use up leftover food as you pretty much have free creative reign when it comes to ingredients. Grab a casserole dish and start to slowly simmer some onions with your choice of stock, herbs and spices - we recommend adding in some coriander. Add in some diced potatoes and keep the mixture turning over with yoghurt, double cream and a dash of lemon juice to bind it together. Then last, but not least, add in your leftover Christmas turkey pieces.

Ham and Leek Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a winter classic by any standards. Use some of your Christmas leftovers to make this creamy treat with a twist. Start by pouring the macaroni pasta into a pot of boiling water and leave to cook. Make your own cheese sauce from scratch using cheese, flour, mustard and milk or buy pre-made. Fry the leeks in a pan with oil until tender then place the pasta into a large dish then top with leeks and diced ham, cheese sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and cheese. Leave to bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes until golden brown then serve with toasted garlic bread. 

Christmas Dinner Pie 

This is the perfect recipe to ensure that nothing goes to waste on Boxing day. Make your own pastry or you can purchase pre-made pastry to line the baking tin. Layer your pie with any leftovers from turkey and cranberry sauce to vegetables and stuffing. Place the pie lid on top with a coating of egg wash then leave to bake and turn golden brown. Save some for us!

Turkey, Brie and Cranberry Toastie

Few too many mulled wines on Christmas day? Don’t worry we’ve all been there and we know that cooking isn’t always top of the priority list so this toastie combo is the perfect easy option for a delicious snack. Fill the bread/baguette with the filling and add a dash of pepper then leave to toast - yum!

Red Cabbage, Cauliflower and Coconut Dhal

A healthy option here to restore your nutrient levels after many a festive shenanigan. Place the leftover cauliflower into a tin with some oil and seasoning and roast in the oven for 20-30 minutes. Pour some oil into a saucepan and gently stir in the onion and red cabbage. Add in some garlic, ginger and mixed spices and fry for a few minutes. Pour the vegetable stock over and allow to simmer for 40 minutes before draining. Serve with a dash of lime juice and sprinkle of dried coconut flakes. 

Christmas Pudding Trifle 

By the time you reach dessert in your Christmas Day feast, it’s often tricky to leave the plate completely empty no matter how delicious the Christmas pudding is. If you find yourself with a fair amount of Christmas pudding leftover then fear not, for it makes a lovely trifle base. Break the pudding up and compact it into a serving bowl with a dash of sherry and a tablespoon of pear juice. Drain the pears and layer the slices on top of the pudding then pour a mixture of custard and mascarpone on top followed by a layer of whipped cream.

Hopefully these recipe ideas have given you some inspiration on how you can stop your Christmas leftovers going to waste and enjoy some delicious food in the process. From everyone at Quince & Cook we hope that you have a wonderful Christmas and brilliant New Year.

Remember, if you try out any of these recipes then make sure to send us a pic!

Quince & Cook