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What kinds of canapes can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still seem festive?

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a great chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. People are looking for a big hug of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, place it on mini pancakes and crown it with affordable roe. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the interior. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then fry. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make superb crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce 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 arrange on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be scrubbed 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 add 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 few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.