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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 impress guests?

Party snacks doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a great chance to clear the decks. The main guideline is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. People just want a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into crumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, just add a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. 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 preheated oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining 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.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your leftover veg with herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.