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What types of bite-sized appetizers can I whip up 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 offers a great opportunity 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 comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with affordable roe. Small patties are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix 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 leftover ham, chicken, or foraged fungi for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. 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 citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, 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 ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some artisan bread and start building sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the icebox. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.