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

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a perfect chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, combine with fresh herbs, citrus, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or foraged fungi for the filling. Whizz stale bread into crumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, 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 taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, 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 fried potato cake. Mix all your leftover veg with herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Reheat in a preheated oven for a short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.