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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?

Finger food needn't be elaborate, so New Year's offers a perfect chance to use up what's left. The main guideline is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, combine with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. 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 jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. Incidentally, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed 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 crisp it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with citrus juice, a dash of soy and a little spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and add a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the icebox. Refresh in a hot oven for a short time and top with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.