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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 doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's offers a great opportunity to use up what's left. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or foraged fungi for the filling. Blitz stale bread into crumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, 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 can continue after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg 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 and a little spicy oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Veg, 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 season and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.