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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?

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 stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. People just want a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Small patties are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz old bread into crumbs to coat them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make superb 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 holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some sourdough and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, 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 toss with remaining sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little chilli oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and present in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.