Leftover vegetables are often an afterthought, but with a little creativity, you can transform them into delicious dishes that are both nutritious and satisfying. Instead of letting them go to waste, why not give these leftover veggies a second life in some tasty recipes? Here are four creative ways to use your leftover vegetables to create new meals the whole family will love.

1. Vegetable Frittata

A frittata is the perfect dish for using up leftover vegetables. It’s versatile, quick to make, and packed with flavor. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, sauté any leftover vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Once the veggies are softened, whisk together a few eggs (usually about 6 eggs for a medium-sized skillet), season with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like, and pour the mixture over the cooked vegetables in the skillet.

Cook the frittata on the stovetop for a few minutes until the edges start to set, then transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set. You can add cheese, herbs, or even some cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor. A vegetable frittata is a perfect breakfast, lunch, or light dinner option that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

2. Veggie-Loaded Soup

A hearty soup is another great way to use leftover vegetables. Whether it’s roasted veggies, steamed broccoli, or carrots, these can be easily turned into a comforting, flavor-packed soup. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and any spices you like in a large pot. Add your leftover vegetables, along with broth (vegetable or chicken), and bring it to a simmer.

If you like a smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until creamy. For a chunky soup, simply leave the vegetables as they are. You can also add beans, lentils, or pasta for extra substance. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and some grated cheese for a comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly day.

3. Vegetable Stir-Fry

Stir-fries are a quick and easy way to incorporate leftover vegetables into a new dish. Start by heating oil in a large pan or wok and adding any leftover vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or broccoli. You can also add any leftover cooked rice or noodles to make the dish more substantial.

For the sauce, combine soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a little honey or brown sugar for sweetness. You can also add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice for acidity and balance the flavors. Stir-fry everything together, allowing the vegetables to crisp up and the sauce to coat everything evenly. Serve the stir-fry as a side dish or a main meal, and feel free to add some protein like tofu, chicken, or shrimp for a more filling dish.

4. Veggie Tacos or Wraps

Leftover vegetables can be transformed into tasty fillings for tacos or wraps. Whether it’s grilled veggies, roasted squash, or sautéed spinach, you can make a delicious vegetarian taco or wrap by adding these leftovers to a soft tortilla or a lettuce wrap. Start by reheating the vegetables in a skillet with some olive oil and spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika for extra flavor.

Once the vegetables are heated through, fill your tortillas or wraps with them and top with fresh salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of sour cream. You can also add cheese, black beans, and a squeeze of lime juice to elevate the flavor. These veggie tacos or wraps make for a fun and customizable meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Bonus Tip: Make Vegetable Patties or Burgers

If you have a large amount of leftover veggies, consider making vegetable patties or veggie burgers. Mash the leftover vegetables and combine them with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasoning to form patties. You can pan-fry or bake them until crispy and golden. Serve them on buns like a traditional burger or as a patty with a side salad.