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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 feel special?

Finger food doesn't have to be fancy, 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—no one wants 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 blinis and top it with affordable roe. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, combine with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, croissants make excellent coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Get some ham and turkey in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your leftover veg with herbs, then season and add flour. Cut 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 sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.