Leftovers give you a few more days to savor your holiday creations. Make sure they're safely stored by following these pointers.
Tips:
- Toss any stuffing containing meat after three days.
- Use a refrigerator thermometer to make sure your fridge stays between 35 and 40 degrees F.
- Cool hot leftovers in the refrigerator instead of on the counter.
- Keep leftovers at least 2 inches apart in the fridge to allow cold air to circulate.
- Refrigerate leftovers immediately - within two hours of preparation.
Steps:
- Wash your hands well with soap and warm water before handling leftovers.
- Remove stuffing from inside the turkey and store in a separate container. Use stuffing within three days.
- Wrap leftover roasts and turkey tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and eat within three to four days.
- Pour leftover gravy into a plastic storage container. Use within three days.
- Divide large amounts of leftovers like stuffing, mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole between several storage containers - smaller portions cool faster.
- Place leftover veggies in plastic storage containers and eat them within five days.
- Cover cranberry sauce and eat within a week. It's great on those leftover turkey sandwiches.
- Wrap leftover fish or seafood (and that oyster stuffing) tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and use within one to two days.
- Cover pumpkin, apple and pecan pies tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate and eat within five days.
Warnings:
Toss any leftovers that look or smell odd. But remember, contaminated food may look and smell fine. When in doubt, throw it out.