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

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's presents a great chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste of comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with fresh herbs, citrus, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, croissants 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 berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost 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 artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

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 a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and top with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.