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What types of canapes can I whip up 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 clear the decks. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. People are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and caramelized onions, then roll 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, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, just add a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and start building sandwiches with lots of tangy 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 turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.