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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 impress guests?

Party snacks doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's offers a great opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests just want a big hug 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 affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or hot smoked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, citrus, and fried leeks, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or foraged fungi for the filling. Whizz stale bread into crumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Sausage roll fillings are another perfect use for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. Seasoning-wise, all you need a bit of citrus zest and aromatic herbs, and they'll taste 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. Place some holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some cranberry sauce and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then lay on top of some sourdough and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. There’s always a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. 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 spicy oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Transforming Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and add a binding agent. Stamp out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the icebox. Reheat 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: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.