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What kinds of canapes can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas remaining food that will still feel special?

Party snacks doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect 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 are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Small patties are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or foraged fungi for the interior. Blitz stale bread into crumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, buttery pastries make excellent coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place 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 start building sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and present in little gem leaves.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.