Festive Bite-Sized Treats: How to Utilize Christmas Leftovers into NYE Canapes

What kinds of bite-sized appetizers can I whip up for New Year’s Eve using my Christmas leftovers that will still feel special?

Finger food doesn't have to be fancy, so New Year's presents a perfect opportunity to clear the decks. The key rule is to keep things to just one bite—guests don't want to manoeuvre a fork. Guests are looking for a comforting taste of comfort food with a decadent twist.

If you have a bit of cured fish left, place it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Small patties are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or flaked salmon, fold it through mashed potato, blend with fresh herbs, lemon, and fried leeks, then roll in Japanese breadcrumbs and fry until golden.

You could also have a ball with Spanish croquettes. Prepare the white sauce up to days ahead, then use leftover ham, poultry, or mushrooms for the filling. Whizz old bread into breadcrumbs to coat them, then cook until crisp. Savoury pastry mixtures are another perfect use for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a coating for chicken pieces. Seasoning-wise, just add a bit of citrus zest and thyme, and they'll sing so much more. Incidentally, croissants make superb 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 store in the freezer. While you're at it, set aside some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the fridge. When needed, defrost the meat, then pop it in a preheated oven with the reserved glaze for a brief period. Cool and slice thinly, then lay on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of cranberry sauce. Slice into small squares for a surefire hit.

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 punchy. Pull the meat, then fry it slowly in a pan, and mix with leftover cranberry sauce thinned with citrus juice, a spoonful of soy and a little spicy oil. Finish with fresh herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Remaining Veg

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and ready to party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Mix all your remaining vegetables with herbs, then add salt and pepper and add flour. Cut out portions to about the size of blinis, then keep in the icebox. Reheat in a preheated oven for a short time and finish with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for a late breakfast the next day.