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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 seem festive?

Finger food doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's offers a perfect chance to use up what's left. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. People just want a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, combine with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of lemon zest and thyme, 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 doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with lime juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and present in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and add flour. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.