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

Finger food needn't be fancy, so New Year's presents a great chance to clear the decks. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. People are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on mini pancakes and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, citrus, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or foraged fungi for the filling. Whizz stale bread into crumbs to coat them, then fry. Savoury pastry mixtures are another natural home 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 sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make excellent crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some holiday meats in an sealed tub and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some sourdough and start building sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Leftover Vegetables

Veg, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Combine all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then season and incorporate a binding agent. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes and top with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.