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What kinds of canapes can I prepare for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still feel special?

Party snacks doesn't have to be elaborate, 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 handle a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz stale bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and start building sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have 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 toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and add flour. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.