German Phrase
Reste sind immer schnell.
Meaning
Literally, 'Leftovers are always fast.' In everyday German it is used to say that dishes made from leftovers can be prepared quickly, so they are a convenient option when you’re short on time.
When to use
Use this sentence when talking about meal planning, cooking, or when you want to suggest that using leftovers saves time. It works in casual conversation with friends or family, especially in a kitchen setting.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Restesindimmerschnell
Reste (noun, plural)
Plural noun meaning 'leftovers'. In German, nouns are capitalized and the plural ending -e is common for masculine nouns.
sind (verb, 3rd person plural)
Present tense of 'sein' (to be) for plural subjects. It links the subject to the predicate adjective.
immer (adverb)
Means 'always' and is placed before the adjective it modifies.
schnell (adjective)
Describes speed; here it functions as a predicative adjective after 'sein'.
🗨In Conversation
Reste sind immer schnell.
Leftovers are always quick.
Ja, das spart mir viel Zeit beim Abendessen.
Yes, that saves me a lot of time at dinner.
✕Common Mistakes
Reste ist immer schnell.
Use the plural verb 'sind' with the plural noun 'Reste'.
Reste sind immer schnelles.
The adjective 'schnell' stays in its base form after 'sein'; do not add the -es ending.
Reste sind immer schnell zu machen.
If you want to add a verb phrase, use 'schnell zu machen' as a separate clause, e.g., 'Reste sind immer schnell zu machen.' but the original sentence does not need it.
↔Alternatives
Reste lassen sich immer schnell zubereiten.
Leftovers can always be prepared quickly.
Man kann Reste immer schnell aufwärmen.
You can always reheat leftovers quickly.
Mit Resten geht das Essen immer schnell.
With leftovers, the meal is always fast.
Cultural Tip
In German households, especially in busy urban areas, reusing leftovers is common and seen as both economical and time‑saving. The word 'Reste' is used more often than the English 'leftovers' and can refer to anything from a half‑eaten sandwich to a pot of soup. When you say 'Reste sind immer schnell,' you’re tapping into a practical mindset that values efficiency in the kitchen.