Embrace Leftovers

Making extra food to store means having a premade meal for your lunch bag, or a home-cooked dinner waiting for you after a busy day. Most cooked leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 4 days, or in the freezer for 3–4 months; let the food cool completely before you pack it up for storage. Freeze liquid-based meals like soups and stews in small batches so you can heat up just enough for one or two servings, and clearly label items for freezing. Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator or microwave, never at room temperature.