I hate to waste food too. I seldom make enough to have leftovers, since I am the only one compelled to eat until they’re gone. (holidays are the exception)
We also have leftovers...I didn’t make as much this year, and send a lot home with the guests, but there’s always a couple of friends who bring SO much of their goodies, and won’t take any home, even though I send some home with other guests, I still have some. Tonight we’re have people over for leftovers and what is left over will go to the trash and birds/squirrels.
And like Geee said, we know what January is for...seafood and salads.