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

Party snacks doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's offers a perfect chance to use up what's left. The main guideline is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People just want a big hug of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll mixtures are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, all you need a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some ham and turkey in an sealed tub and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce thinned with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your leftover veg with herbs, then add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a short time and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.