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What kinds 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 elaborate, so New Year's presents a great chance to use up what's left. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, all you need a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, croissants make excellent coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Get 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, thaw the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and start building sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, 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 crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.