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

Party snacks doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to use up what's left. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in panko and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Blitz stale bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, croissants make superb 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 ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some artisan bread and start building sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. There’s always a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your leftover veg with herbs, then season and add a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.