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What types of canapes can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still seem festive?

Party snacks needn't be fancy, so New Year's offers a perfect opportunity to use up what's left. The main guideline is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a big hug of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, combine with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces 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 perfect for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables 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 icebox. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.