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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?

Party snacks needn't be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect chance 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 are looking for a big hug of hearty fare with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, place it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: If you have remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, combine with dill, citrus, and caramelized onions, then coat in Japanese breadcrumbs and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, chicken, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz stale bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for bite-sized chicken. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing 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 doesn't have to stop after Boxing Day. Get some ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and sweet glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Let it cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and start building mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. There’s always a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little chilli oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and present in little gem leaves.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of fried potato cake. Mix all your remaining vegetables with fresh herbs, then season and add flour. Stamp out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then keep in the freezer. Refresh in a preheated oven for a few minutes and top with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.