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

Party snacks doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to use up what's left. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, 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, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll mixtures are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries make superb coatings, 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 ham and turkey in an sealed tub 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 hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building 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 dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

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. Stamp 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 whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.