Party's Over. Now what?

Yesterday was my daughter's birthday party. Standard invite-the-school-class-to-go-bowling type of party. Lots of fun with minimal stress.

Families were encouraged to stay and join the fun. As one who often likes to complement my snack chips and pizza with fresh produce, I served store bought fruit and veggie trays. Totally a big hit - with adults and kids.

Of course, I had way too many leftovers of fine-not-fabulous veggies (let's not talk about the fruit that needed to be tossed). What's a frugalista to do?

I came up with four different uses and saved myself from throw away peril:
• Grape tomatoes and celery sticks became crudite for pre-dinner munching. I made a quick dip with leftover pesto vinaigrette mixed with some mayo.
• Bell peppers (red, yellow and green) were added to onion saute for Turkey Chilaquiles. Email for recipe - great post Turkey Day leftover idea!
• Broccoli and carrots were tossed with ground cumin, honey, olive salt and coarse salt and roasted at 400F for 20 minutes. Great companion to our Turkey Chilaquiles.
• Cauliflower and cucumbers were magicly transformed into Cauliflower Pickles. Can't wait to devour them tonight while making dinner.

What have you done with your leftover veggie or fruit trays?