five hacks for making the most out of leftovers

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If you are constantly greeted to the sight of takeaway containers, old pasta and countless other leftover meals clogging up your fridge and have no idea how to transform them into new dishes then you're in luck: we've got a handful of spiffy ideas on making the most out of leftover meals. Spy our pearls of wisdom below (preferably while munching on something warm and tasty). 

TRANSFORM LEFTOVER CURRY INTO PASTRIES Got some old curry, casserole, cooked meats and veggies or even stew that you have no idea what to do with? Simply grab some puff pastry and turn your previous dinner into bite-sized pies that's sure to become a new kitchen staple. Check out this method to learn about how you can take a crack at this yourself. 

KEEP VEGGIE SCRAPS FOR STOCK You've probably heard this tip many times before, but hey, it's a classic for a reason! Place any vegetable cuts into a freezer-safe bag or container for safe keeping, and whenever you get a hankering for a hearty soup or broth simply throw them into a big pot, cover with water and let simmer for however long you need (usually around two to six hours). 

CREATE A 'KITCHEN SINK' SALAD This is heaps easy to make, and — like the name suggests — includes whatever leftover veggies, pasta or whatever meals you've got sitting in the fridge all together. Gone are the days of boring lettuce chunks with tomato and an equally boring dressing, this salad includes everything you already know you're fond of, although we also recommend adding some fresh herbs sprinkled on top. 

KEEP STALE BREAD ON HAND We're always big fans of crusty bread, but if a loaf has turned a tad too hard to make sandwiches, don't fret! Store it away in a container in a dry place (like in your pantry, not your fridge) and then place it in a food processor to grind up into bead crumbs. You can use them in stuffing, trimmings or in salads. Yum! 

IF ALL ELSE FAILS, FRY RICE If there's a food staple we can describe as 'reliable', we reckon that good old fried rice fits the bill perfectly. Similar to the 'kitchen sink' salad, simply chuck any leftover veggies or cooked meat in a frying pan or wok alongside cooked rice and a healthy heaping of soy sauce. The best thing about fried rice is just how versatile it can be, so don't shy away from adding any unorthodox ingredients — the world is your oyster (sauce).

We’ve teamed up with the folks at UNiDays to bring you stories about all the stuff you go through when you're studying. Did you know UNiDAYS members can nab a 15 per cent discount on their frankie magazine subscriptions? Well, now you do. Check the bottom of the story for more deets.