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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 impress guests?

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a great opportunity to use up what's left. The main guideline is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, place it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, all you need a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then crisp 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 chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in little gem leaves.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Refresh in a preheated oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.