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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?

Finger food needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a great opportunity to use up what's left. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on blinis and crown it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, combine with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll 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, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, just add a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate 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 top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.