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What types 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 great chance to use up what's left. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food 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 just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll mixtures are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make superb crumbs, 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 airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some sourdough and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and add a binding agent. Cut out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated 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.