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What kinds 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 fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to clear the decks. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste of comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll mixtures are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, just add a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries make excellent coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash 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 dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your leftover veg with herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then keep in the freezer. Reheat 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.