🔗 Share this article

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

Finger food needn't be fancy, so New Year's offers a perfect chance to use up what's left. 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 comfort food with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on mini pancakes and crown it with affordable roe. Small patties are also an ideal choice: If you have leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz old bread into crumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get 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 refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed 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 fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and present in little gem leaves.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and add flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and finish with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.