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July 22, 2025

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Dining out is a treat, but it can be an expensive one if you’re not thoughtful about it. One of the easiest ways to stretch your restaurant dollars is to become a pro at leftovers.

The trick? Eat the foods that don’t reheat well while you’re there, and bring home the ones that do.

Be Well,
Anisa

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The Art Of Leftovers

Fries? Eat them hot.
French fries, chips, and other fried foods lose their crisp in the fridge. If they’re part of your meal, enjoy them while they’re fresh. They rarely reheat well, even in an air fryer.

Salads and sandwiches? Not great the next day.
Unless you can separate the components, dressed salads and mayo-based sandwiches tend to get soggy fast. If you’re not planning to eat it soon, finish it there or skip it altogether.

Pasta, rice, and stir-fry? Perfect for later.
These dishes often taste just as good the next day, sometimes better. Ask for a box early and portion it out before you even dig in. That way, you avoid overeating and get a second meal for “free.”

Saucy dishes reheat best.
Curries, casseroles, baked pastas, and stews stay moist and flavorful, making them ideal leftovers. You can stretch them even further at home by adding cooked veggies, rice, or a side of bread.

Skip the kids’ meal, share the entrée.
Restaurant portions are often huge. If you’re dining with kids, consider sharing your meal with them and saving what’s left. Or split one entrée between two adults and order an extra side.

In Closing...

Best Sell 5 StarEating out doesn’t have to be a budget buster. With a little planning and smart packing, one meal can turn into two, or even three. Treat dining out like a two-part experience. Enjoy the fresh now, and savor the rest later.

Reader Tips Worth Every Penny

In response to the June 15th Issue
"We added insulation to our attic last fall, and our heating bill dropped by $40 a month. It was one of the smartest moves we've made!" – Gary, MN

"I replaced my old garage door after it jammed one too many times. The new one looks great and works perfectly. I should have done it sooner." – Lina, IL

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