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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 seem festive?

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a perfect opportunity to use up what's left. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, combine with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz stale bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, all you need a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building sandwiches with lots of cranberry 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 turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your leftover veg with herbs, then season and add flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Reheat in a preheated oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.