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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 doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's offers a great chance to use up what's left. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. People are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Blitz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and start building sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Garnish 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 add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then store in the icebox. Refresh in a hot oven for a short time and finish with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.