Even though it may be easier to try to heat an entire plate of leftovers at once, you will have much better success re-heating each item separately and then plating the food when it is all hot. Very rarely will all of the items in a meal heat at the same temperature and in the same amount of time.

Microwave ovens are fine for re-heating most foods but for tomato based Italian-type foods like lasagna or baked ziti you are better off firing up your conventional oven.

While we are on the subject of leftovers, please keep a few safety tips in mind. Always cool foods completely before covering them in the refrigerator - never, ever put a top on hot food. Don't leave food that should be refrigerated out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Eat or throw out leftovers within 4 days.

--- © Chef Raven

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