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What types of canapes can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still impress guests?

Party snacks doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. People are looking for a big hug of comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on mini pancakes and crown it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, all you need a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, croissants make superb crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

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 full of flavour. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce thinned with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little chilli oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.