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What types of bite-sized appetizers can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still impress guests?

Finger food needn't be fancy, 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. Guests are looking for a big hug of comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or foraged fungi for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another perfect use 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 superb crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers 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, defrost the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares 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 perfect for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and present in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and add a binding agent. Cut out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.