As hard as the hubby and I try to cook for two, there are many nights were we end up with leftovers. Often we end up taking the leftovers into work the next day for lunch or freeze it for another dinner.

What are you best leftover storage ideas, tips and products that you live by?  

My MIL bought us this “As Seen on TV Smart Spin Storage System“ for Christmas one year, and I thought it was silly. But honestly, it’s one if the useful things she’s ever given us! In fact, I think anything where the lids match, is just smart.

Knowing I usually pack my lunch for work, I see some Tupperware as investment.  Though we do keep leftover yogurt containers, etc.- some plastic containers are just well thought out. Like these:

http://www.pillsburystore.com/p-119439-2740-salad-container_Fit-N-Fresh-Healthy-Food-Container-Combo-Pack.aspx?Ntt=salad%20container&Ntx=mode%20matchall&Nty=1&Ntk=All

Anyways, looking forward to hearing your ideas, tips and tricks. Sincerely, CC

I also save yogurt containers, as well as cottage cheese, margerine, frosting containers, etc. etc....if it has a good fitting lid, I save it...then I use them when sending food/leftovers home with guests...that way I don't have to worry about remembering who I sent my good tupperware or rubbermaid dishes home with....and I don't need them back. I encourage whoever I sent it home with to do the same thing. Recycle & reuse...that's the name of the game! :-)

I'm glad you asked this question- we have the same problem!

Thanks!

I`ve totally given up storing leftovers for longer periods of time. I used to put them in Tupperware boxes, but I kept forgetting about them actually containing leftovers, and then weeks and months would pass, just for me to finally find the box "hidden" somewhere in the fridge; off course with moss all over it on the inside.. 

I keep a post-it pad on the fridge.  When I put leftover(s) in fridge - I list what ..with date after it. 

i.e.  Chicken caccitore/2 pcs chick - 11/10

      Green beans (-1 cup) - 11/9

      soup - 1-1/2 cups - 11/9

Then it is right there in front of  my eyes when I am ready to open the fridge; and I can decide whether to use it for lunch/snack or incorporate it in to something I'm going to make.    I've found that this has helped me a lot.  Oh I cross off (or toss the post it) when I use the item... and add more.

I also like to freeze certain leftovers (soups, chili, sauces, etc.) .... as bringing them out in a month they don't taste like leftovers!  In fact, I plan ahead when making certain things that freeze well ... it stocks my fridge for busy (or lazy) days.

jds12, Thankyou, thank you, fantastic idea of post it note for 'left-ups'!  Wonder why I never thought of this.  Ginny :)

I love my inexpensive (less than $20 bucks @ Wal-mart) Sterlite small see-through square & rectangular 16pc set with the color coded tops & bottoms & their snap on lids.  It contains 2 each of 4 different sizes that hold between approx 3.5 cup to 6 cups each.  Being square & rectangular, they fit perfectly in everything from the cabinet, fridge & lunch bags.  They snap closed on all four sides, seal tightly & are freezeable/microwaveable/dishwasher safe.  Rejoice in those leftovers as it's one last thing to worry about & saves lots of time & money.