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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 elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to use up what's left. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, place it on blinis and crown it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or foraged fungi for the filling. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry fillings are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries 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 airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some sourdough and assemble sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, 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 add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the icebox. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.