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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?

Finger food doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's offers a perfect chance to clear the decks. 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 decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz 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 lemon zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, croissants make excellent coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some sourdough and assemble sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

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

Revamping Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to 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 blinis, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.