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What types of canapes can I prepare for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas remaining food that will still feel special?

Finger food doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect chance to use up what's left. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. People are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on mini pancakes and top it with affordable roe. Small patties are also an ideal choice: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with fresh herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with croquetas. 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 cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of lemon zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb crumbs, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a preheated 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. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce thinned with lime juice, a spoonful of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in little gem leaves.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be scrubbed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate a binding agent. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then store in the icebox. Refresh in a preheated oven for a short time and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A good tip, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.