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What types of bite-sized appetizers can I whip up 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 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 decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with dill, lemon, and caramelized onions, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or foraged fungi for the filling. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. 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 taste so much more. As an aside, croissants make superb coatings, 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 airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and add flour. Cut out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.