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What kinds of bite-sized appetizers can I prepare for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas remaining food that will still feel special?

Finger food needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to use up what's left. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries make excellent coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some ham and turkey in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce thinned with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your leftover veg with herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated oven for a few minutes and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.