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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 seem festive?

Finger food needn't be fancy, so New Year's offers a great opportunity to clear the decks. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, combine with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Blitz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, just add a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent coatings, 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, set aside some cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and start building sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. There’s always 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 lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and present in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and add a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.