Ever noticed how some meals taste better the next day? It seems like they get a chance to soak up all their flavors overnight. We’re highlighting these kinds of dishes, the ones that make leftovers something to look forward to. This list of meals makes leftovers something to look forward to rather than dread.

Stacks of assorted prepped meals in clear containers with red lids.
Photo credit: Shutterstock.
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Chili

Chili. Photo credit: Feels Like Home.

Chili benefits from a rest allowing the spices and flavors to meld together, creating a deeper, more robust taste. The beans and meat absorb the spicy, savory liquid, resulting in a thicker, heartier dish that’s even more satisfying after a day’s wait.
Try This: 15 Must-Taste Chili Recipes

Lasagna

Lasagna. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Lasagna’s layers have a chance to soak up all the herbs, spices, and sauces overnight, making each bite more harmonious and flavorful. It’s as if the ingredients decide to become best friends, resulting in a dish that’s more unified and delicious the next day.
Try This: Easy Lasagna Recipe

Dal

A bowl of lentil curry garnished with green herbs and a red chili, served with flatbread on the side.
Photo credit: Shutterstock.

Dal, with its roots deeply embedded in Indian cuisine, transforms beautifully overnight. When it’s gently warmed up the next day, either on the stove or in the microwave, the magic begins. The initial mix of spices like garam masala and cumin, which were flavorful on day one, really comes into their own the next day after everything has melded together.

Meat Sauce

Meat Sauce. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

After a night in the fridge, meat sauce’s flavors intensify, with the garlic, herbs, and meat merging into a more cohesive and rich sauce. This extra time allows the sauce to develop a fuller body and taste, making it a perfect companion for your favorite pasta.
Try This: Delicious Lamb Bolognese

Stew

Stew. Photo credit: The Typical Mom.

The ingredients in stew have time to blend together, with the meat becoming even more tender and the vegetables absorbing all the savory broth. This process enhances the overall flavor and texture, making the stew more comforting and delicious the next day.
Try This: 13 Cozy Stew Recipes

Vegetable Soup

Vegetable Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Overnight, the flavors in vegetable soup become more pronounced as the ingredients share their unique tastes with the broth. This not only intensifies the flavor but also creates a more satisfying and cohesive soup experience.
Try This: Vegetable Soup

Curry

Curry. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Curry’s complex spices and flavors have time to meld and deepen, resulting in a dish that’s richer and more aromatic. The additional time allows the sauce to thicken and the ingredients to fully soak up the vibrant flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegetable Curry

Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

The flavors in Shepherd’s Pie meld together overnight, allowing the savory meat filling and creamy mashed potatoes to achieve a perfect balance. This makes the pie even more delicious and comforting the next day, with a richer taste and more satisfying texture.
Try This: Turkey Chili Pie

Spiral Ham

Spiral Ham. Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Spiral ham’s flavors continue to develop as the glaze further infuses the meat. This results in a juicier, more flavorful ham that is even more enjoyable after a day of resting in its own delicious juices.
Try This: 26 Ways To Use Leftover Ham

Meatloaf

Meatloaf. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Meatloaf’s flavors consolidate and mature overnight, making it juicier and more flavorful. This rest period allows the ingredients to fully integrate, creating a more cohesive and enjoyable dish the next day.
Get the Recipe: Bomb Meatloaf

Marinated Bean Salads

Marinated Bean Salads. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Marinated bean salads actually improve with a little patience. The beans absorb the dressing, becoming more flavorful as they sit. The acids and herbs in the marinade work their magic, ensuring that each bean packs a punch of flavor, making the salad more delicious after it’s had time to rest.
Get the Recipe: Mango Black Bean Salad

Stuffing

Stuffing. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Stuffing isn’t just for the holidays; it’s for the day after, too. The bread has time to fully soak up all the flavors from the herbs, broth, and any add-ins like sausage or vegetables. This rest period allows the stuffing to become even more moist and flavorful, turning leftovers into a sought-after dish.
Get the Recipe: The Best Cornbread Stuffing

Here’s What I Did To Lose 15 Pounds And Finally See My Abs

A woman is holding her jeans in her hands.
Photo credit: Depositphotos.

A few years ago, after being a CrossFit junkie for 4 years at the time, I decided on a goal: I wanted to finally see my abs and look how I felt I should’ve for the amount of time I spent in the gym. As a mid-30s woman who already ate well and considered myself healthy, it was an interesting journey to see what it took to actually achieve this goal. Here were the things that made the most difference. Spoiler alert: there’s no magic pill.

See Them Here: Here’s What I Did To Lose 15 Pounds And Finally See My Abs

12 Foods To Eat If You Want To Look Younger

A woman is looking at her face in the mirror, considering foods to look younger.
Photo credit: Depositphotos.

We all want that secret recipe for looking younger. Well, it turns out, it’s not just about what you put on your skin, but what you put in your body too. From the creamy avocados on your toast to the dark chocolate you snack on after dinner, some foods have the power to give your skin that youthful glow we’re all chasing. Here’s a list of foods that are not only delicious but can also help you look and feel a bit more vibrant.

See Them Here: 12 Foods To Eat If You Want To Look Younger

11 Simple Snacks for Better Blood Sugar Control

A woman laying on a couch eating popcorn.
Photo credit: Depositphotos.

Keeping your blood sugar in check doesn’t mean you have to skimp on snacking. In fact, the right snacks can be your secret weapon in maintaining those levels while still satisfying those mid-day cravings. Pairing up the good stuff—fiber, proteins, and healthy fats—can help to keep blood sugar steady. These snack ideas are as delicious as they are smart for your health.

See Them Here: 11 Simple Snacks for Better Blood Sugar Control

Select images provided by Depositphotos.

Founder and Writer at Running to the Kitchen | About

Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.

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