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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?

Party snacks doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a great opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. Guests are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, combine with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries make superb coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some sourdough and assemble sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in little gem leaves.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and add flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.