15 ways to turn leftovers into tasty meals

Who hasn't opened their fridge to find leftovers threatening to end up in the garbage can? Almost 63% of households admit to throwing away food every week. Yet turning leftovers into tasty dishes is not only economical, it's ultra-satisfying. Whether you're in a hurry, a foodie or just a lover of good food, there are a thousand and one ways to give your leftovers a second life. Here are 15 concrete ideas to avoid waste, impress your friends and treat yourself without breaking the bank. Ready to become the king of the fridge?

Got naan bread, grilled vegetables or roast chicken lying around? just spread a tomato sauce, throw your leftovers on top, add some cheese and pop in the oven! In less than 15 minutes, you've got a personalized pizza. For even more inspiration, take a look at Chefs Plate 's recipes for original ideas to adapt with your leftovers.

The omelette is the joker in the fridge. Mix your leftover meat, vegetables or cheese with a few beaten eggs. In 5 minutes, you've got a protein-packed meal with zero headaches. According to Statistics Canada, eggs are one of the most popular breakfast foods among men. Simple, quick and perfect for clearing out the fridge!

Leftover white or brown rice? Sauté with vegetables, a little soy sauce and your protein of the day. Add a fried egg for the finishing touch. Rice bowls are ultra-popular for their nutrition and customizability. For variety, take inspiration from Fresh Prep's menus, which focus on freshness and simplicity.

Tortillas, leftover meat, crudités, a little sauce: roll it all up and you've got a wrap worthy of a restaurant. Wraps are perfect for quick lunches or impromptu picnics. According to a Nielsen study, wraps are among the favorite meals of active men for their practicality and satiating qualities.

Turn your tired vegetables, leftover pasta or rice into a soupy meal. Add broth, a few spices and simmer. It's the anti-waste dish par excellence, especially in Quebec winters when soup is one of the classic ways to warm up. Tip: a little grated cheese on top is a sure-fire hit.

Mix leftover chicken, fish or tofu with crunchy vegetables, grains and a homemade vinaigrette. Meal salads are ideal for boosting your energy after sport. In fact, according to Health Canada, a diet rich in vegetables reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Simple, fresh and healthy!

Cook pasta and add your leftover meat, vegetables or cheese to create a unique sauce. A drizzle of olive oil, a few herbs and you're done. According to a Léger survey, pasta is the favorite dish of 78% of Canadians men. Practical, economical and always delicious.

Put your leftovers in a dish, cover with béchamel or cream, add cheese and pop in the oven. Gratin is the way to give almost anything a second life. What's more, it's the kind of dish that appeals to everyone, especially when it's cold outside. For original gratin ideas, take a look at HelloFresh's inspirations.

A little meat, vegetables, hot sauce and tortillas: you've got homemade tacos in less than 10 minutes. Tacos are perfect for evenings out with friends or meals in front of the game. According to Statista, tacos are becoming increasingly popular in Canada, especially among young adults.

Beat a few eggs, add your leftover vegetables, meat or cheese, pour into a mould and bake. No need for pastry! Quiche without pastry is light, quick to prepare and ideal for lunch or brunch. According to the Observatoire de la Consommation, egg dishes are on the rise among diet-conscious men.

Sauté your leftover meat or vegetables with coconut milk and spices. In 15 minutes, you'll have a fragrant, comforting curry. Curries are appreciated for their spiciness and their ability to sublimate any leftovers. Perfect for travelling without leaving your kitchen!

Mix leftover fish, meat or vegetables with a little mashed potatoes and shape into croquettes. Pan-fry for a crispy exterior. Croquettes are ideal as an aperitif or as a main course with a salad. According to an Ipsos study, fried dishes remain a guilty pleasure for 62% of men.

Bread, leftover meat, cheese, crudités and a good sauce: put it all together for a sandwich that has nothing to envy bistros. Sandwiches are the number-one choice for quick office lunches. Tip: toast your bread for an even more gourmet effect.

Compose a bowl with leftover grains, vegetables, proteins and a homemade sauce. Buddha bowls are perfect for filling up on nutrients and varying flavors. According to Harvard Health, this type of meal promotes satiety and balanced eating. Convenient for guys who want to eat healthy without complicating their lives.

Slice some bread, add your leftover tomatoes, grilled vegetables or cold meats, a drizzle of olive oil and pop in the oven. Bruschettas are ideal for aperitifs or as a stylish starter. According to a survey by the Canadian Food Association, homemade aperitifs are on the rise among men aged 25 to 40. Simple, quick and always appreciated!