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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?

Finger food doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on mini pancakes and crown it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, combine with fresh herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make superb coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an sealed tub and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present 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 herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.