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

Finger food doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a great chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. Guests are looking for a big hug of comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an sealed tub and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and add flour. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.