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

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect chance 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. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, combine with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Blitz old bread into crumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make superb coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, 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 zingy 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 mix with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the icebox. Refresh in a preheated oven for a few minutes and top with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.