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What types of bite-sized appetizers can I prepare for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas remaining food 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 key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. People are looking for a big hug of comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, 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. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and present in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and add flour. Cut out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated oven for a short time and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.