🔗 Share this article

What types of canapes can I prepare 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 great chance to use up what's left. The key rule is to keep things 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.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, layer it on mini pancakes and crown it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got leftover smoked haddock or flaked salmon, mix it through mashed potato, combine with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or foraged fungi for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to cover them, then fry. Savoury pastry fillings are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. As an aside, buttery pastries make excellent 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 sealed tub and store in the freezer. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, thaw the meat, then place it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Cool and cut into thin pieces, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and assemble sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Slice into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be turned into a zingy salad. You often have 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 leftover cranberry sauce loosened with lime juice, a dash of soy and a little chilli oil. Garnish with fresh herbs and some sliced spring onion, and serve in little gem leaves.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, 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 add salt and pepper and add flour. Cut out portions to roughly the size of blinis, then keep in the freezer. Reheat in a hot oven for a short time and finish with your choice of topping—perhaps sliced beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: save a stash for a late breakfast the next day.