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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 impress guests?

Party snacks needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a great opportunity to use up what's left. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or mushrooms for the interior. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs 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. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, croissants make superb coatings, too.

One beloved treat 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 airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and start building sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining 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 present in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the icebox. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.