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

Party snacks needn't be fancy, so New Year's offers a great 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 are looking for a big hug of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey 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 reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy 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 lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and present in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then keep in the icebox. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.