🔗 Share this article

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

Party snacks doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity 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 comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Blitz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry fillings are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make excellent 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 freeze. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce thinned with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.