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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 doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a great chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. People just want a comforting taste of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Small patties are also just the ticket: If you have leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or foraged fungi for the filling. Whizz stale bread into crumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. For flavour, just add a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy 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 remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy sauce and a little spicy oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and present in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.