Festive Bite-Sized Treats: How to Utilize Christmas Leftovers into New Year’s Eve Appetizers

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 needn't be elaborate, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to use up what's left. The key rule is to stick to items to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. Guests just want a big hug of comfort food with a decadent twist.

Should you possess a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with affordable roe. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, fold it through creamy potatoes, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions, then roll in panko and fry until golden.

You could also get creative with croquetas. Prepare the white sauce a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another natural home for those crumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, all you need a bit of citrus zest and thyme, 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. Get some ham and turkey in an airtight container and store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, thaw the meat, then pop it in a hot oven with the saved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a winner.

Leftover turkey, meanwhile, could be turned into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of turkey leg left over, and it's ideal for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and toss with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and present in small lettuce cups.

Revamping 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 fresh herbs, then season and incorporate flour. Stamp out portions to about the size of blinis, then store in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes and finish with whatever you like—perhaps sliced beef and grated horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for brunch the next day.