Leftover magic: Easy Boxing Day recipes using Christmas leftovers

After the bustle of Christmas, Boxing Day, is the perfect opportunity to slow down, and many will do just that at the beach. 

With the Cape Town high expected to reach 29 degrees, it’s the ideal time to be out, spend time together and enjoy the simple pleasures. 

Families gather, kids play, and laughter fills the air - sometimes over a casual picnic on the sand or a backyard barbecue for those staying closer to home.

For the beachgoers, by now your transport to the beach should be sorted. 

The Quantum will pick you up at 8am for Muizenberg Beach and bring you back at 6pm in the afternoon. And remember, be on time, because uncle has other beach trips planned.

Everyone is going, from grandfather to great-grandchild, and the aunties and uncles will be joining too. 

Even better, the whole street will be heading to the beach on the day.

Oh and don’t forget, a trip is confirmed after payment is done.

The plan for the day is simple: swim, relax, and have fun. We don’t always have the time or money for a beach trip like this, but on Boxing Day, we are going out.

To ensure a fun, stress-free day for the whole family, a little planning goes a long way. 

From packing food and drinks to keeping everyone comfortable and refreshed, these simple hacks and tips will help you enjoy the sun, sand, and surf without the usual hassles. 

It’s December, boss, after the Christmas haul, we are putting leftovers to good use in the Boxing Day picnic basket.

Beach Packing Tips

Use airtight containers and cooler bags with ice packs for perishable items.

Portion foods into small containers or wraps for easy grab-and-go access.

Include napkins, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer; finger foods are easier but you still need clean hands.

Bring a shade umbrella or pop-up tent, especially for storing food out of direct sun.

Don’t forget reusable cutlery, plates, and cups to cut down on single-use waste.

Beach Hacks / Tips

Keep drinks cold longer. Freeze a water bottle overnight; it doubles as an ice pack.

Pack snacks in small resealable containers to avoid sandy fingers.

Bring a small trash bag for easy collection of wrappers and leftovers.

Foldable chairs, a beach mat, and a lightweight cooler make the day more enjoyable.

Refreshing Beach Essentials  

Tropical Fruit Cups - Dice pineapple, mango, watermelon, and berries; pack in small cups. Why it’s perfect: Refreshing, hydrating, colourful, and easy for kids to grab.

Cucumber and Mint Water - Infuse water with cucumber slices and fresh mint leaves. Why it’s perfect: Keeps everyone hydrated, adds a fresh twist, and looks elegant in bottles.

Cheese and Crackers Snack Packs - Cubes of cheese with a handful of crackers or mini breadsticks in resealable containers. Why it’s perfect: Quick, portable, and balances the richer meats you’re taking.

Frozen Yogurt Berry Pops - Spoon yoghurt and mixed berries into silicone molds or small cups and freeze. Why it’s perfect: Chill factor for the hot sun, child-friendly, and a healthy-ish sweet treat.

Gammon and Pineapple Skewers with Sweet Chili Glaze (see above)

Ingredients

Leftover gammon, cubed

Pineapple chunks

Small wooden skewers

2 tbsp sweet chili sauce

Method

Thread gammon and pineapple onto skewers alternately.

Brush lightly with sweet chili sauce.

Chill until ready to pack; serve cold or at room temperature.

Why it’s fun - Bite-sized, portable, and gives the gammon a tropical, beach-vibe twist.

Roast Chicken Taco Cups

Ingredients

Leftover roast chicken, shredded

Mini taco shells or lettuce leaves

½ avocado, diced

½ mango, diced

Lime juice

Method

Mix chicken with avocado, mango, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Spoon into mini taco shells or lettuce leaves.

Pack in a container; perfect for beach finger food.

Why it’s fun - Portable, colorful, fresh, and not your usual leftover sandwich.

Leg of Lamb Flatbread Wraps

Ingredients

Leftover leg of lamb, thinly sliced

Flatbreads or wraps

2 tbsp hummus or tzatziki

Cucumber slices

Fresh herbs (mint or parsley)

Cherry tomatoes, halved or thinly sliced

Mixed salad leaves (lettuce, rocket, or spinach)

Method

Spread hummus or tzatziki on the flatbread.

Layer lamb, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, salad leaves, and herbs.

Roll tightly and cut into smaller pieces for easy handling.

Why it’s fun - Gourmet-feeling, easy to pack, and perfect for a beach picnic without being heavy.

Tongue and Pickle Mini Sliders

Ingredients

Sliced cooked tongue

Small buns

Caramelized onions

1 tbsp mustard mayo

Method

Spread mustard mayo on buns.

Layer with tongue slices and caramelised onions.

Cut into small sliders; pack for easy serving.

Why it’s fun - Elevates a leftover ingredient into a fancy finger food - people will love it