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What kinds of bite-sized appetizers can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still feel special?

Finger food doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a great opportunity to use up what's left. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or foraged fungi for the filling. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, 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 sealed tub 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 preheated oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. There’s always 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 leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and present in little gem leaves.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.