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What types of bite-sized appetizers can I prepare for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still feel special?

Finger food needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to clear the decks. The main guideline is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, blend with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Blitz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll mixtures are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, croissants make superb crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the reserved 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 tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a few minutes and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.