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What kinds of bite-sized appetizers can I prepare for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still seem festive?

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity 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 big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings 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 aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, 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 holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop 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 sourdough and start building sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce loosened with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and top with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.