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What types of canapes can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas remaining food that will still impress guests?

Party snacks needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a great opportunity to use up what's left. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests just want a big hug of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked 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 get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, just add a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some artisan bread and start building sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed 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 crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and add flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.