A Lighter Thanksgiving Leftover Menu

Thanksgiving Dishes:

Small Plates:

Turkey Chopped Salad

Make use of that turkey—but instead slathering it in rich gravy, make a creamy dressing with healthy avocado.

Turkey Arepas

Serve a couple of these with a side of vegetables (leftover green beans) for a balanced meal.

Greek Salad Pita Sandwiches

For something light and perfect for those on the go; add shredded turkey for extra staying power

Soups:

Turkey Soup 

Nothing fills you up better than a big bowl of soup; the thanksgiving flavors in this soup will satisfy your leftover cravings, too!

Turkey Stock

From The Daily Meal

With this turkey stock, you can eat it plain, make consommé with it, or serve it with some leftover chopped green beans, shredded turkey. When served with a hunk of whole wheat bread, it's an easy filling meal for a cold day.

Butternut Squash Soup

Inspired by this recipe, make use of your leftover pureed sweet potatoes or butternut squash with this easy and healthy soup. Swap your squash puree for the squash, butter, and seasonings in this recipe, sautéing the onion and carrot first, then adding the squash along with the stock. Perfect with a dollop of cranberry sauce on top!

 

Heartier Dishes:

Leftover Turkey Curry

This dish is hearty enough to satiate even the biggest appetites, especially when served over a dried fruit and nut couscous, but in smaller portions satisfies those who are watching their waistline, too.

Turkey Pot Pie

Slightly indulgent, with a biscuit topping, but also somewhat healthy when served in moderate portions, along with a big green salad.

Turkey Tostadas

Full of fun Mexican flavor, and that leftover thanksgiving turkey, tostadas are a versatile dish that can serve a variety of palates and dietary requirements when served with a wide variety of garnishes. Some lighter ideas include chopped cucumber, red pepper, scallions, lettuce, tomatoes, but for those needing something more substantial, you can garnish them with more cheese, lots of avocadoes, and maybe some sour cream on top.

Have more leftovers than you can eat? Click here for Post-Thanksgiving Leftovers Party Ideas.

For more turkey talk, visit The Daily Meal's Guide to Thanksgiving!