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What kinds of bite-sized appetizers can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas remaining food that will still seem festive?

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a perfect chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People just want a comforting taste 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 an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or flaked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, combine with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place 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 artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

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 fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and present in little gem leaves.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and top with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.