Whether it’s for a quick family supper or a weekend barbecue with friends, around this time of year, we often find ourselves at the grill. And that means that instead of leftover baked chicken or roasted vegetables, our fridges are filled with containers of extras from the grill. Fortunately, re-inventing last night’s fire-kissed fare is easy—and delicious. In fact, using up grilled leftovers is a great way to put a fun, fresh spin on breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Here are six ways to turn surplus grilled meat, fish, veggies and fruit into entirely new meals.
Grilled steak
Thinly slice leftover steak and serve it over lettuce for a light but satisfying lunch. Mixed greens topped with skirt steak, crumbled blue cheese, grape tomatoes and toasted walnuts is a winning combination, but feel free to create your own custom salad.
Grilled fish or shrimp
Turn leftover grilled fish or shrimp into tacos by adding diced avocado and tomato, sliced red onion, flour tortillas and lime wedges. And be sure to enjoy your tacos soon—leftover fish and shrimp will only keep for a day, maybe two.
Grilled vegetables
For an effortless hors d’oeuvre or snack, use leftover vegetables to make crostini. Spread softened goat cheese on toasted bread, add your veggies and finish with thinly sliced basil or a dollop of pesto.
Grilled chicken
Chop grilled chicken—you can use white meat, dark meat or both—add mayonnaise, celery, onion, a fresh herb or two and freshly squeezed lemon juice, and serve over greens or on bread. Dress up your chicken salad with halved seedless grapes, diced apple or chopped dried apricots.
Grilled sausages
Slice leftover grilled sausage and toss with hot pasta, baby greens such as arugula, spinach or kale, and plenty of freshly grated parmesan for a quick, practically effortless meal. If you also have grilled veggies on hand, add those in for more color and flavor.
Grilled fruit
Chop leftover grilled fruit, such as peaches, nectarines and pineapple, and serve over yogurt for breakfast or a snack. Add toasted nuts for extra flavor and protein, and sweeten the mixture with honey or maple syrup if desired.