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

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a perfect chance to clear the decks. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or foraged fungi for the interior. Blitz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated oven for a few minutes and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.