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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 feel special?

Party snacks needn't be fancy, 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 manoeuvre a fork. People just want a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, blend with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Remaining poultry, 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. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce thinned with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming 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 herbs, then add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.