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What kinds of bite-sized appetizers can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still impress guests?

Finger food needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a great chance to use up what's left. The main guideline is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday 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 fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. There’s always a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce thinned with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and add flour. Cut out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a few minutes and top with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.