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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 doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to use up what's left. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People just want a big hug of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and fried leeks, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Get some ham and turkey in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. 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 preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and start building sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice 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 crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and present in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.