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

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

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also an ideal choice: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, combine with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, just add a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, croissants make excellent coatings, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Shred 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. Finish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and present in little gem leaves.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and add flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.