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

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a great opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or foraged fungi for the filling. Blitz stale bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, 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 ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place 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 sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in little gem leaves.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of blinis, then keep in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.