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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 feel special?

Party snacks doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a great chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, place it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and fried leeks, 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 leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into crumbs to coat them, then fry. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Get some ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce thinned with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then keep in the icebox. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and top with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.