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

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a great opportunity to clear the decks. The main guideline is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also an ideal choice: If you have leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste 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 doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a short time. 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 winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.