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

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a great chance to use up what's left. The main guideline is to stick to items 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 blinis and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Blitz old bread into crumbs to coat them, then fry. Savoury pastry fillings 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 aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make excellent coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in little gem leaves.

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 leftover veg with herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.