When you’re short on time, there’s a real opportunity to get creative.
A handful of leftovers, a few pantry staples, and a willingness to keep things simple can come together in minutes. These kinds of meals take the pressure off, no strict recipes, no extra shopping, just making the most of what’s already in your kitchen, saving time and food.
One of the easiest options is the humble microwave mug meal. It might not sound glamorous, but it’s incredibly effective. Crack a couple of eggs into a mug, add any bits and pieces from the fridge, leftover vegetables, a sprinkle of cheese, maybe some cooked meat if you have some to use up, and microwave in short bursts, stirring as you go. In just a few minutes, you have something warm and satisfying. It’s also a clever way to use up small amounts of food that might otherwise be forgotten, even giving stale bread a second life in a quick Cheesy As or Sweet As Meal in a Mug.
For something just as simple but a little more filling, a can of tuna can be a lifesaver. Paired with leftover rice or a microwave pouch, it becomes the base of a quick, balanced meal. Add whatever you have, some salad, a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of soy sauce or mayo, and you have a bowl that feels fresh and put together with minimal effort. It’s a great reminder that keeping a few pantry staples on hand can make all the difference when time is tight.
Then there are those moments when you have "not quite enough" of anything. This is where couscous shines. With just a splash of boiling water, it’s ready in minutes and perfect for bulking out small amounts of leftovers. Toss through roasted vegetables, a handful of chickpeas, or leftover chicken, and suddenly you’ve turned odds and ends into a proper meal. It’s one of the simplest ways to stretch ingredients.
Instant noodles are another go-to that can do far more than we give them credit for. With a few additions, they transform from a basic packet into a satisfying, well-rounded meal. Throw in wilting greens, frozen vegetables or leftover protein, and even crack in an egg while it cooks. It’s quick, affordable way to clear out the fridge at the same time.
And then there’s the ever-reliable tortilla. Few things are as versatile. Wrap up whatever you have, beans, leftover meat, leftover stir fry or curry, roasted veg, add a spread or sauce and you have an instant meal. Toast it in a pan or sandwich press, and it becomes something even better.
What all these meals have in common is simplicity. When you can turn everyday ingredients into meals in minutes, you’re not just saving time, you’re saving money and reducing food waste too, contributing to a kitchen that works for you, even on your busiest days.
For more
• For more inspiration and recipe ideas visit lovefoodhatewaste.co.nz or follow @lovefoodhatewastenz on Facebook and Instagram.
Cheesy As Meal In A Mug
Ingredients
1 egg
¼ cup milk
Pinch of salt and pepper
2 slices bread
2 Tbsp tomato sauce, relish, chutney, mustard or sweet chilli sauce
2 slices of ham, roughly chopped
2 Tbsp grated cheese
Optional toppings: sour cream, pesto, nuts, herbs
Method
Spread the tomato sauce on both slices of bread, then cut into nine squares.
Break the egg into a mug, then add milk, salt and pepper and beat well with a fork.
Add the remaining ingredients in alternating stages to the mug, starting with the cheese, then ham and a few squares of bread creating layers; set aside some cheese to go on the top.
Press the bread pieces in the mug until it is covered with the egg and milk mixture.
Microwave for one and a half minutes. If it looks too soft, microwave for another 30 seconds.
Eat as it is, or top with your choice of topping.
Tips
• Any deli meat can be used for this recipe or leftover roast chicken, shredded.
• For a vegetarian version, try adding sweetcorn or other finely chopped vegetables.
Sweet As Meal In A Mug
Ingredients
1 egg
¼ cup milk
½ tsp sugar (or honey, maple syrup or golden syrup)
½ tsp vanilla essence (optional)
2 slices bread
2 Tbsp spread of your choice (jam, peanut butter, Nutella, honey etc.)
1 Tbsp optional add ins: chocolate chips, sliced banana, berries, nuts etc.
Ice cream, yoghurt or whipped cream, to serve (optional)
Method
Spread the jam (or other spread) on both slices of bread, then cut each slice into nine squares.
Break the egg into a mug, then add the milk, sugar and vanilla. Beat well with a fork.
Place the bread pieces in the mug and push it down until it is covered with the sweet egg and milk mixture. If using optional extras, sprinkle them in between the layers of bread.
Microwave for one minute and 30 seconds. If it looks too soft or is too runny at the bottom, microwave for another 30 seconds.
Eat as is, or top with ice cream, yoghurt, or your favourite sweet sauce.
Tips
• Spices, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, can be added instead of the vanilla.
• Play around with flavour combinations such as peanut butter and jam or banana and Nutella.
• For a different version, spread butter on the bread and then sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon. Add in raisins or chopped apple.
