Holiday Finger Food: How to Use Christmas Leftovers into New Year’s Eve Appetizers

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

Party snacks doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, combine with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll mixtures are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a coating 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 beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. There’s always a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce thinned with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and present in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then keep in the icebox. Refresh in a preheated oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.