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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?

Finger food doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to use up what's left. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have remaining fish or flaked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside 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 short time. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce thinned with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your leftover veg 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 short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.