How to Make Yesterday’s Leftovers Taste Good Tomorrow

Nobody likes to waste food. Especially really delicious food! So, when you have some leftovers to stow away for another day, be sure you are making all the right moves. Continue below to learn how to properly store your leftover meals so they stay fresher for longer.

Takeout Restaurant Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070
Takeout Restaurant Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

It All Starts With Quality Food Storage Containers

Although it can be tempting to leave last night’s leftovers in the takeout box they came in, it is important to make the effort and switch containers before popping it into the fridge. Oxygen is a leftover’s worst nightmare, so airtight storage is a must for preserving your excess foods. Not only do airtight containers keep moisture in and bacteria out, but they also prevent odor leaks.

When choosing a quality food storage container, glass or plastic will do. If you are someone who often takes food on the go, plastic might be the more versatile option; just be sure to use leak-proof containers. Glass is also a great option, especially for home storing. Aim for a set made with borosilicate glass so that you can transfer the containers directly from the fridge or freezer into the oven or microwave.

Timing is Everything

Aside from air, there are other impactful factors that decrease the quality of leftovers, like time. It is important to get your timing right when stowing leftovers away, whether in the refrigerator or freezer. It is also important to enjoy your leftovers within a specific amount of time, while they are still safe to consume.

It is encouraged to place your leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as you are through eating. If your leftovers are still warm, it is recommended to store them in a shallow container so they can cool faster. As for how long leftovers stay good in storage, it depends on whether they are frozen or thawed. When storing leftovers in the fridge, the USDA recommends consuming leftovers within 4 days’ time. In the freezer, food can generally maintain quality between 3 and 6 months.

Common Types of Leftovers and How Long They Last in the Fridge:

✤ Sushi, Sashimi & Poke – 2 to 3 Days
✤ Fish – 2 to 3 Days
✤ Steak – 3 to 4 Days
✤ Chicken – 3 to 4 Days
✤ Pizza – 4 to 5 Days
✤ Pasta – 4 to 5 Days
✤ Beans & Rice – 3 to 4 Days
✤ Salad – 1 to 2 Days

Now that you know how to make your leftovers last longer, test your skills by getting some delicious carryout tonight! Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to place an extra-large takeout order at our highly-rated Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant so you can have your meals planned for the next few days! Or just stop in! No reservations required. Enjoy a wide menu selection of lunch and dinner options, plus drink specials, all at neighborhood prices!

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Which Type of Vegetarian Are You?

Whether you have been a vegetarian for years or considering the transition, you might be surprised to discover that there is more than one way to adopt the vegetarian lifestyle. Scroll down to review the different types of vegetarianism practiced today and perhaps decide which is most compatible with your healthy lifestyle goals.

Vegetarian Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner in Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070
Vegetarian Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner in Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

The Benefits of a Vegetarian Lifestyle

Vegetarianism is revered for several reasons. Not only is a plant-based, meat-free diet suggested to boost heart health, lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and lower cholesterol, but it is also good for the environment and the economy. It is also proposed that vegetarianism can abate Type 2 diabetes, prevent cancer, help manage weight, and even sharpen your brain!

Regardless of why you have chosen to become a vegetarian, your efforts will not be wasted. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes are excellent sources of healthy, all-around nutrition. Before deciding on making the switch or modifying your current vegetarian diet, be sure to do your research or consult with your doctor to learn how to adequately nourish yourself with the right portion of protein, nutrients, and vitamins.

Most Common Types of Vegetarianism

The conventional vegetarian diet eliminates animal meat and fish, but still includes eggs and dairy. Yet the vegetarianism lifestyle entails a lot more than just that, and even makes room for personalized options. Traditional vegetarianism, which strictly excludes meat and meat-based products, is basically the umbrella category for a longer list of sub-categories of vegetarianism. These include pescatarians, flexitarians, lacto-vegetarians, ovo-vegetarians, and lacto-ovo vegetarians. Confused? Intrigued? Here’s a breakdown of each type of vegetarian diet:

Lacto-Ovo Vegetarians

Lacto-ovo vegetarianism is just a fancy name for the traditional, universally-accepted vegetarian diet, which excludes meat and fish, but includes eggs (ovo) and dairy (lacto).

Flexitarians

A flexitarian diet is a great starting point for anyone who wishes to transition from a meat-eating diet to a plant-based one. Flexitarians basically maintain an 80:20 or 70:30 type of vegetarian lifestyle. So, while they mainly eat a vegetarian diet, perhaps on the weekends or special occasions they eat meat.

Pescatarians

Pescatarians practice the traditional vegetarian diet but also eat fish and seafood. This diet provides omega-3 fatty acids and other fish-derived nutrients that are good for our health.

Lacto-Vegetarians

Lacto-vegetarians keep dairy products in their diet, like milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt. However, they omit eggs, fish, and meat.

Ovo-Vegetarians

Ovo-vegetarians keep eggs in their diet, but exclude meat, fish, and dairy products. Those who are lactose-intolerant prefer this type of vegetarianism.

Vegans

Vegans take vegetarianism to the strictest level, excluding all animal meat and products, including fish, eggs, and dairy. Some even avoid animal-based goods like leather.

Are you looking for delicious, healthy food made fresh daily? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy a healthy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks all weekend long. Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

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