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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 feel special?

Finger food doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect 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. Guests are looking for a big hug of comfort food with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, just add a bit of lemon 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 can continue after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an sealed tub and freeze. While you're at it, reserve 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. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your leftover veg with herbs, then add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated oven for a few minutes and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.