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

Party snacks needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. Guests just want a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz stale bread into crumbs to coat them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb 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 airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce thinned with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in little gem leaves.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to 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. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.