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

Party snacks doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to clear the decks. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to handle 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, place it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Blitz stale bread into crumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an sealed tub and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned 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 crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce loosened with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in little gem leaves.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, 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 add salt and pepper and incorporate a binding agent. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Refresh 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: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.