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

Finger food doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's offers a perfect opportunity to use up what's left. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make superb crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday 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 cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and present in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Cut out portions to roughly the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a few minutes and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.