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

Party snacks needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, croissants make superb coatings, 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 holiday meats in an sealed tub and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce thinned with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your leftover veg with herbs, then add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the icebox. Refresh in a preheated oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.