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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 impress guests?

Finger food needn't be fancy, so New Year's offers a perfect chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People just want a comforting taste of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and caramelized onions, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz stale bread into crumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get 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, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces 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 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. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and add 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 finish 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.