Do you have last nights leftovers taking up space in your refrigerator? Did you know these leftovers can make the perfect lunch? They can and it’s easy, time saving and gives everyone a little change of pace at lunchtime.

Rice can make a great next day lunch. Rice is a great way to fill in when it comes to lunch ideas. Try using it in wraps, tacos or burritos. Add it to soups or stews for something a little different. Even rice pudding is a great to use that leftover rice and gives them a healthy dessert at lunchtime.

Pasta can be stored in microwave containers and be reheated the next day for the perfect lunch leftover. Add a little extra sauce so the pasta stays moist and sprinkle some cheese on top. If you want to make it a little different from the night before try using some fresh grated vegetables in the sauce or some left over ground meat for a change of pace.

Chicken is another leftover option. Shred or slice the chicken to make sandwiches or a sandwich spread. Add it to pitas or tortillas with some lettuce, tomato and cheese to make chicken tacos or burritos. Cut the chicken into chunks and make a green salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots and cheese for a refreshing chicken salad. Place the dressing in a separate container and add it just before eating the salad to keep it fresh.

Meatloaf makes great sandwiches for the next day. You can also place a slice of meatloaf on top of spaghetti and add some sauce. Place it in the microwave and you have the perfect hot lunch the next day.

Steak and pork chops can also be used for those lunches. Slice them up for sandwiches or use them as fillings in wraps, tacos and burritos. Slice them or cut them in chunks for another great salad idea.

Everybody knows that pot roast is always better the second time around. Again use it in sandwiches, as filler in salads or mix it with some rice and any vegetables that are leftover. Just pop it in the microwave and have a warm lunch on a cold day.

What’s better than leftover soup or stew? Just place it in a microwave bowl and heat it up. Better yet pour it into a thermos and it’s ready to go when you are ready to eat.

Using leftover for lunch can not only help the family budget but can inspire the imagination. Take a glance in that fridge and you might be surprised at the great lunch ideas you will find available.

You can find more lunch ideas at Menu Planning Central

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