leftover love

Leftovers are one of my many favorite things about Thanksgiving, but not everyone feels the same way.  If your family likes a different meal every night, you can re-use your Thanksgiving fixings and create a delicious, easy and new dinner!  That is definitely something to be grateful about.

Leftover potatoes (russet or sweet) can become Potato pancakes

2 cups mashed potatoes

1 egg, beaten

1/3 cup flour

Salt and pepper

In a bowl, thoroughly combine the potatoes, eggs and flour.  Season with salt and pepper.  In a large heavy skillet, heat olive oil over moderately high heat, until it is hot but not smoking.  Drop Tablespoons of the potato mixture, being sure to flatten them with a fork.  Cook for approximately 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown.  Transfer the pancakes as they are cooked to paper towels to drain and if desired keep them warm on a rack set on a baking sheet in a preheated 250 degree oven.

Leftover turkey can become Barbecued Turkey Sandwiches

Combine and heat 3 cups shredded turkey with ¾ cup prepared barbecue sauce.  Serve on a brioche or onion roll.

Leftover cranberries can become Apple Cranberry Crisp

Leftover cranberries (up to 1 ½ cups)

6 cups peeled apples, thinly sliced

¾ cup brown sugar

2 teaspoons cinnamon

½ cup flour

2/3 cup oats

½ cup butter, room temperature

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Combine cranberries & apples and place in a buttered 8x8 pan.  In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, oats and butter together; blend with fingers until crumbly.  Evenly top apple/cranberries with oat mixture.  Bake for 35 minutes.

mashed potato pancake recipe adapted from epicurious
apple cranberry crisp recipe adapted from Cooking FUNdamentals
photo courtesy of Pottery Barn Kids