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

Finger food doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a great opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. People just want a big hug of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on blinis and top it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, combine with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into crumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, just add a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, 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. Place some ham and turkey in an sealed tub and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then crisp 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 sliced spring onion, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to roughly 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 roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.