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

Party snacks doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a great 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 are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have remaining fish 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 have a ball with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, just add a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday 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, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the icebox. Reheat in a preheated oven for a short time and finish with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.