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What types of canapes can I prepare 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 offers a great opportunity to use up what's left. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with fresh herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Blitz stale bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, 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 ham and turkey in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish 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 cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce thinned with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your leftover veg with herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated oven for a short time and finish with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.