18 Easy & Creative Leftovers Recipes

Did you know we waste 40% of our food each year globally? Food that could have fed millions of people. While harvesting makes up a substantial percentage, we can do our bit by reducing the food waste in our kitchen.

Reduce your carbon footprint by trying out these 18 delicious leftover recipes. Some easy. Some creative. Click through for easy-to-follow instructions and step-by-step videos.



Rice is one of the most versatile grains and leftover rice can be transformed into a variety of lip-smacking dishes. From the ever-popular fried rice to some time-tested traditional ones, try out these delicious variations.




Makes the most of the summers! A popular rice dish from Southern India, Raw Mango Rice is a variation of lemon rice but with the tanginess of raw mangoes. Try out this nut-free, vegan recipe.



Chitranna. Nimmakaya Pulihora. Spicy, tangy, and easy to make. Lemon Rice is a classic flavorful staple from Southern India. An excellent way to use leftover rice, it works great for tiffin boxes too. Try out this nut-free recipe.



The humble raw kathal or jackfruit elevated to a delicious, lip-smacking pulao. Kathal Tawa Pulao is the perfect vegetarian alternative that will have you licking your fingers.




Spicy, tangy, and absolutely delicious. The Schezwan Egg Fried Rice is full of flavors and ready in minutes. Try out this easy-to-cook recipe.



Juicy tomatoes, scrambled eggs, and rice combine together for a sweet and savory dish. Try out my version of the Tomato Egg Fried Rice that is quick and easy to make.



Give the popular rajma chawal a twist. Red beans and rice flavored with warm Cajun spices. This is my take on the classic recipe. Perfect for a quick and healthy weekday meal.



Left with more boiled potatoes than you need? We have all been there. Instead of turning them into the good old paranthas, try out these lip-smacking Indian dishes that will have your family asking for seconds.




Spicy, delicious, and absolutely lip-smacking. Sauted potatoes coated in a delectable masala. Try out my version of the ever-popular Bombay Potatoes that are easy to make at home.



Seasoned creamy curd with boiled potatoes. The Aloo or Potato Raita is a quick and easy side high on flavors. An oil-free recipe perfect for the summer months.



Tired of reheating mashed potatoes? Transform them into delicious and creative dishes. You will find yourself looking forward to the leftovers next time. These work great with leftover boiled potatoes too.




Crispy on the outside. Fluffy on the inside. Give the good old aloo tikki a twist with the potato masala waffles. An easy-to-cook recipe flavored with Indian spices that works perfectly for breakfast.



Crispy on the outside. Cheesy and creamy on the inside. The Cheesy Potato Rice Balls are a great way to use up leftovers. A kid-friendly snack that is perfect for a mid-day treat or tea-time.



Tired of eating the same old pasta? Try out the light and fluffy gnocchi in a delectable herb and cheese sauce. These Italian potato dumplings are just as easy to make at home.



Holiday roast or a family meal. Chicken is usually the most common leftover. Transform it into mouth-watering one-pot meals and sandwiches. Perfect for weekend brunch or weekday dinner.




A French tart made of pastry crust, filled with chicken, mushrooms, cheese, and savory custard. A one-pot meal that works perfectly for a Christmas breakfast too.



Chicken and mushrooms in a cheesy savory custard. The Cheesy Chicken Casserole is a delicious one-pot meal that works perfectly for Sunday brunch or a weeknight dinner.



Looking for a leftovers recipe for your chicken roast? Try out my version of the Barbeque Pulled Chicken Sandwich that is super easy to make, and equally satisfying.


Some More Leftovers Recipes


I share some more leftover recipes. A delicious burger with banana peel. Homemade cheese spread with leftover paneer. And a lip-smacking idli 65. 




With simple ingredients including banana peel, oil, and spices, the BBQ Pulled Banana Peel Burger is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. A take on the popular Brazilian recipe, this burger is packed with plant-based protein and nutrients.



Got some paneer left over? Enjoy the taste of homemade cheese spread infused with herbs and garlic. Spread it on your favorite crackers or add it to your sandwich.



Got some idlis left over? Rustle up the quick, easy, and lip-smacking Idli 65 that is loved by kids and adults alike. It works perfectly for breakfast or a tea-time snack. A spicy snack that will have you reach out for more.


Waste not, want not. The next time you have leftovers in the kitchen, get creative. Do try out the recipes and don’t forget to share the pics with me.

This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Dr. Preeti Chauhan.

This post is a part of ‘Sense and Sustainability Blog Hop’ hosted by Manali Desai and Sukaina Majeed.

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