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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 seem festive?

Finger food needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz stale bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make excellent crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little chilli oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in little gem leaves.

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 leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.