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

Finger food needn't be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity 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 are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries make superb coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday 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 cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce thinned with lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present 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. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then keep in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.