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What kinds of canapes can I prepare for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas remaining food that will still impress guests?

Finger food doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's offers a great opportunity to clear the decks. The main guideline is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to handle a fork. Guests just want a comforting taste of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on blinis and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, combine with fresh herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and deep-fry.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Blitz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home 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. As an aside, croissants make excellent crumbs, too.

One beloved treat at this time of year is a post-holiday sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Get some holiday meats in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham 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 artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's ideal for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with chopped herbs and some green onions, 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 bubble and squeak. Combine all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then season and add flour. Cut out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a preheated oven for a short time and top with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.