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What kinds of bite-sized appetizers can I prepare for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas remaining food that will still seem festive?

Party snacks needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste 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 lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or foraged fungi for the interior. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, croissants 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. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside 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 short time. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some sourdough 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. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your leftover veg with herbs, then season and add flour. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.