9 Kid-Approved Lunch Ideas Using Holiday Leftovers That Will Surprise You
Are your holiday leftovers becoming a boring routine? Fear not, for we are about to turn that culinary monotony on its head! Would you believe me if I said your kids can love lunch made from leftovers? Prepare for some delightful surprises as we transform your festive remains into lunchbox magic.
In this blog post, we’ll read about nine clever and kid-approved lunch ideas that breathe life into those tired turkeys and mundane mashed potatoes. You’ll never look at holiday leftovers the same way again—plus, your kids will be the envy of the lunch table! Intrigued already? You should be!
Santa’s Slider Sliders
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Gobble-Gobble Sushi Rolls
Gobble-Gobble Sushi Rolls
Yup, you read that right! Turkey sushi rolls are the latest trend in making leftovers exciting. Roll mashed potatoes, leftover turkey, and a sprinkle of cranberry sauce in seaweed for a fusion that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Kids will love the idea of ‘sushi’ in their lunchbox, especially when it’s colorful and easily dippable in soy sauce or a delightful cranberry glaze. Goodbye, boring turkey sandwiches, hello sushi fun!
Add slivers of cucumber or avocado for a veggie boost to the roll.
Santa's Slider Sliders
Santa’s Slider Sliders
Transform your leftover ham into mouth-watering slider sandwiches. Pair slices of ham with cheese, add a dollop of mustard or mayo, and tuck them into soft dinner rolls—toast lightly for extra warmth and flavor.
These mini sandwiches are perfect for tiny hands and taste buds and pack well for school lunches. Optional: Top with a slice of pickle for that tangy twist.
Parents, beware—the children’s lunchboxes might start attracting wandering hands at school.
Joyful Jamboree Quesadillas
Leftover Turkey Jack Quesadillas with Cranberry Salsa
Turn your leftover stuffing and turkey into a quesadilla party! Simply mix your stuffing and shredded turkey with some cheese, sandwich them between tortillas, and heat on a pan until crispy.
Send the kids off with a side of cranberry salsa for dipping – you’ll never look at post-holiday meals the same way again. Each bite promises a fiesta of flavors to win over even the pickiest eaters.
Reindeer Wraps
Reindeer Wraps
Everyone loves a good wrap, especially when it’s this fun. Spread a very light layer of cranberry sauce on a tortilla, sprinkle with shredded turkey, and add a few greens like spinach or lettuce.
Roll it up tightly, then slice it into pinwheels. The cranberry jam gives it a sweet, tangy kick that brightens up the usual roll-up. Add some sliced cucumbers for crunch!
It is an excellent option for kids who prefer their meals on the sweet side.
Tinseltown Fried Rice
Tinseltown Fried Rice
Leftover rice from family feasts? Meet Tinseltown Fried Rice! Sauté your turkey, some peas, and any leftover veggies with day-old rice and a splash of soy sauce.
This dish combines the best holiday flavors in a 15-minute masterpiece. Tinseltown Fried Rice is not only quick but also a nutrient-rich meal that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
Garnish with sesame seeds for a dash of extra flair.
Jingle Bells Pasta Salad
Pasta with Turkey and Vegetables
Who knew pasta could scream fun and festivity? Toss your leftover roast vegetables with cooked pasta, chunks of turkey, and a fresh dressing of olive oil and lemon juice.
Add some chopped pecans or dried cranberries for texture, and there you have it—a salad worthy of center stage at any holiday encore.
Kids enjoy pasta in any form, and this one doubles as a standout lunchbox treat!
Winter Wonderland Pizza
Winter Wonderland Pizza Drawing
Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
Pizza night just got an upgrade! Spread some tomato sauce over a pizza base, sprinkle mozzarella, and layer with your choice of holiday meat and roasted vegetables.
Bake until golden, and watch your kids devour their personalized pies that showcase their culinary creativity.
Festive note: Consider adding pine nuts or arugula before serving for extra pizzazz!
Holiday Hodgepodge Soup
Holiday Hodgepodge Soup Drawing
Alberto Conde Kitchen in the Med
A warm bowl of soup is excellent for chilly post-holiday days. Boil your leftover turkey, vegetables, and any uneaten gravy in chicken stock with herbs.
The result is a rich, comforting bowl of nourishment ready to combat winter blues.
For added fun, throw some mini noodle shapes—stars or alphabet letters go over particularly well with the younger crowd.
Festive Frittata
Festive Frittata
Eggs aren’t just for breakfast anymore! Chop up your leftover meats and veggies to fold into a hearty frittata.
Bake until set, and serve slices as protein-packed pockets of deliciousness. For an extra taste explosion, customize with a sprinkling of cheese.
It’s ideal for livening up a Monday morning after a festive weekend!
Recap and Inspiration
Leftover Turkey Jack Quesadillas with Cranberry Salsa
And there you have it—an array of lunch ideas that transform your holiday bounty into kid-approved dishes filled with creativity and flavor.
These recipes minimize waste and spark joy and fond memories long after the holidays have ended. Get your apron, involve the little ones, and turn kitchen duty into a delightful exploration of tastes and textures!
What’s not to love about seeing your kids embrace healthy, homemade meals that stand out in the cafeteria crowd?
Now, ready to start your culinary adventure with holiday leftovers? Share your creations.
Let’s see how your ideas inspire others to create nutritious, imaginative meals that keep the holiday spirit alive well into the new year.
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Welcome to Kitchen in the Med!
I’m Alberto, born and raised in Barcelona, Spain, a principal city in the Mediterranean.
Here, I share authentic, easy-to-follow recipes inspired by the rich flavors of my home. You’ll find wholesome, time-honored dishes, expert cooking tips, and ingredient guides to help you bring the Mediterranean diet and other dishes to your kitchen—regardless of where you live.
You can also follow my quest to find a small plot of land to live and grow a garden in the Med.
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