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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 offers a great opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. People just want a big hug of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or foraged fungi for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries make excellent 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 ham and turkey 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 hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp 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 toss with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate a binding agent. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated oven for a few minutes and top 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.