Holiday Finger Food: How to Utilize Christmas Leftovers into NYE Canapes

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

Finger food doesn't have to be elaborate, so New Year's offers a great opportunity to clear the decks. The main guideline is to stick to items to just one bite—no one wants to handle a fork. People just want a big hug of comfort food with a luxurious touch.

If you have a bit of smoked salmon left, layer it on blinis and top it with lumpfish caviar. Mini fishcakes are also just the ticket: Whether you've got remaining fish or hot smoked salmon, mix it through creamy potatoes, blend with dill, lemon, and fried leeks, then coat in panko and deep-fry.

You could also have a ball with croquetas. Make the bechamel a few days ahead, then use remaining pork, poultry, or foraged fungi for the interior. Whizz stale bread into crumbs to cover them, then fry. Sausage roll fillings are another natural home for those breadcrumbs, or use them as a jacket for chicken pieces. For flavour, just add a bit of lemon zest and thyme, and they'll taste so much more. As an aside, croissants make superb coatings, too.

One favourite thing at this time of year is a leftovers sandwich, and that can continue after Boxing Day. Place some ham and turkey in an airtight container and freeze. While you're at it, reserve some berry relish and honey ham glaze in the refrigerator. When needed, defrost the meat, then place it in a hot oven with the reserved glaze for a short time. Cool and slice thinly, then arrange on top of some artisan bread and assemble mini sandwiches with lots of tangy sauce. Cut into bite-sized pieces for a winner.

Remaining poultry, meanwhile, could be transformed into a spicy, crisp salad. You often have a bit of dark meat left over, and it's perfect for something full of flavour. Shred the meat, then crisp it slowly in a pan, and toss with remaining sauce loosened with citrus juice, a dash of soy sauce and a little chilli oil. Garnish with chopped herbs and some green onions, and serve in small lettuce cups.

Revamping Leftover Vegetables

Vegetables, meanwhile, can be dressed up and fit for a party with a big batch of bubble and squeak. Combine all your leftover veg with fresh herbs, then add salt and pepper and incorporate flour. Cut out portions to about the size of small rounds, then store in the freezer. Refresh in a hot oven for a short time and top with whatever you like—perhaps roast beef and sharp horseradish. A word to the wise, though: set some aside for brunch the next day.