If you ask many people what is the best thing about Thanksgiving, most will probably say being with family, friends and being grateful.

Well, that is wonderful, of course, to be able to count your blessings and share a delicious meal. But survey says, that's not the correct answer.

👇 BELOW: WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR THANKSGIVING SIDE DISHES? 👇

What is the best part of Thanksgiving?

Survey say.....LEFTOVERS!

Families Gather For Thanksgiving Dinner For First Time Since Pandemic Began
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USAtoday.com says 70% of Americans prefer Thanksgiving leftovers to the meal. Holy cow! I always look forward to the meal, all hot and delicious.

But, noooooo, most American's seem to love slapping their leftovers into a sandwich the next day, or Thanksgiving night depending when you had the big meal, more than the meal itself!

Homemade Leftover Thanksgiving Sandwich
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How long can you actually keep leftovers?

Who doesn't like the left over turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and pie. I'm beginning to drool. But, how safe will they keep before you should toss them out?

Meal prepping by sorting berries, notes, and fresh food into clear glass containers
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Dietitian Caroline Thomason, RD, CDCES, tells USA TODAY:

"Unless you're using a buffet warming tray that heats up to at least 140°F, your turkey leftovers should be put away in the refrigerator or freezer within two hours, and in air-tight containers."

 

Okay, they are in the fridge. But what if you want to keep them longer? You have big plans for turkey tacos next week, or maybe even a soup or casserole, turkey fried rice, or you want to hang on the carcass to make a delicious stock. There are so many things you can do with all the leftovers, but can't get to it for awhile.

Freeze them! Yes, package them up and freeze all the leftovers. They will actually last about six months in the freezer.

Happy and safe Thanksgiving!

LOOK: Here's the signature side dish from each state

Stacker researched U.S. trends and cultural influences to determine the signature side dish from all 50 states that everyone should try once.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

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