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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 impress guests?

Party snacks needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect 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. People are looking for a big hug of comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an sealed tub and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the saved 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 cranberry sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little chilli oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a 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 roughly the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a short time 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.