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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 feel special?

Finger food doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, blend with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with citrus juice, a dash of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.