🔗 Share this article

What types 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 doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. People just want a comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz stale bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, just add a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One beloved treat 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, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce loosened with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and add flour. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and top with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.