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

Party snacks doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity 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 cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz old bread into crumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make superb crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce thinned with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in little gem leaves.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to 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 blinis, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.