Holiday Bite-Sized Treats: Ways to Transform Christmas Remains into NYE Appetizers

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

Party snacks needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a great chance to use up what's left. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. People just want a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, combine with fresh herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions, then coat in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those crumbs, 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, croissants make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat 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 store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. There’s always 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 toss with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in little gem leaves.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then keep in the icebox. Reheat in a preheated oven for a few minutes and top with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.