These hearty dishes are perfect for feeding a hungry crowd, and can easily be scaled up if you’re expecting extra guests.

Each recipe is designed to freeze beautifully and reheat with no fuss. Our fruity braised lamb shanks deliver all the warming spice you need for cosy nights in. For something a little more playful, the pulled pork sliders are the perfect make-ahead option for relaxed entertaining.

And the creamy chicken and tarragon pie, finished with a crumbly cheese-straw topping, is the kind of crowd-pleasing comfort dish you’ll always wish you’d made more of. Make at least one of these dishes now, and your future self will be very grateful to find something delicious ready to go

Creamy chicken and tarragon pie

The crowning glory is a pie crust made from cheese straws - utterly addictive! Let the chicken cool completely before shredding so it stays tender, and don’t overcook the veggies, they should be soft but still have a little bite. These small touches make this simple and delicious recipe sing.

TIP: Don’t throw away the remaining poaching liquid. Freeze it in containers and use as base for soups and sauces.

For an easy twist, you can top the filling with mashed potato instead, or make individual pies in oven-save ramekins instead. If you don’t have space in the freezer for the full pie, freeze the filling, then defrost overnight in the fridge, and assemble the pie on the day of serving.

• Serves 6
• Prep 30 mins, plus cooling
• Cook 1 hr 30 mins
• Per serving: 843 cals, 44g fat, 29g sat fat, 48g carbs

Ingredients

• 1.5kg whole chicken, brought to room temperature
• 2 onions, 1 halved, 1 chopped
• 2 sticks celery, 1 halved, 1 chopped
• 2 carrots, 1 halved, 1 chopped
• 500ml chicken stock
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 sprig thyme
• 90g butter
• 70g plain flour
• 2tbsp double cream
• 2tbsp Dijon mustard
• 15g fresh tarragon, finely chopped
• 2 x 320g sheets ready-rolled puff
• pastry, defrosted if frozen
• 1 medium free-range egg, beaten
• 200g Cheddar and Gruyère, grated
• Blanched green beans, to serve (optional)
• You will need: 
• 20x25cm ceramic oven dish

Method

• 1 Put the chicken in a large saucepan with the halved onion, celery, carrot, stock, bay and thyme. Add a large pinch of salt and enough water to just cover the chicken. Bring to a simmer, then cover and poach over low heat for 1 hr or until the chicken is cooked through.
• 2 Melt 20g of butter in a sauté pan. Add the chopped onion, celery and carrot with a pinch of salt and cook over medium heat for 10 mins, until softened. Remove from the heat.
• 3 Once cooked, set the chicken aside to cool, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Reserve 600ml of the poaching liquid, discarding the chunks of veg.
• 4 Melt the remaining butter in a large saucepan. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 mins. Gradually add the reserved poaching liquid, stirring until smooth, then simmer until thickened to the consistency of double cream.
• 5 Remove from the heat and stir in the cream, 1tbsp mustard and the tarragon. Stir in the chicken and veg, and season. Cool, then freeze for up to 3 months, in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• 6 Defrost the chicken mixture in the fridge overnight. Stir well, then transfer to a pie dish. Heat the oven to 200C Fan.
• 7 Unroll both pastry sheets. Brush one sheet with 1tbsp mustard and a little egg, then sprinkle with the cheese. Put the other sheet of pastry on top and press gently to seal. Cut into 8 strips, lengthways, then brush with egg and twist several times.
• 8 Arrange the cheese straws on top of the pie filling, trimming the ends to fit the dish. Bake for 30 mins until golden and bubbling, then serve with blanched green beans (or other green veg).

Pulled pork sliders

Gingerbeer and orange spice up the flavour in this easy, yet irresistible, dive-in dish. Pork shoulder is a really cost-effective cut, and benefits from low and slow cooking, becoming meltingly tender and super flavoursome. It makes a great party dish, served in buns with a crispy, fresh slaw, but is equally delicious as a taco filling, or with rice and salsa.

TIP: ‘Boston Butt’ is the best cut to use (from the upper part of the shoulder), but a well-trimmed boneless shoulder is also a good option. It will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days, or you can freeze the cooked meat for longer.

It’s best to keep the pork as a single piece until you are ready to reheat and serve, as this will keep it lovely and juicy, but if you’re short on oven space, shred and toss the meat with the sauce before freezing/chilling, then simply reheat in the microwave or a pot over low heat, with an extra splash of water.

• Serves 8-10
• Prep 20 mins, plus overnight marinating
• Cook 4-4½ hrs
• Per serving (based on 10): 621 cals, 30g fat, 10g sat fat, 34g carbs

Ingredients

• 2kg skinless, boneless pork shoulder (see tip)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 orange, halved
• 1 bay leaf
• 750ml ginger beer
• 150ml good-quality barbecue sauce
• Small slider/bread rolls, to serve
• For the spice rub:
• 1tbsp each soft dark brown sugar, sweet smoked paprika, ground cumin
• 2tsp each fine salt, onion powder, dried oregano, garlic granules, ground black pepper
• For the slaw:
• 1 banana shallot, finely chopped
• 3tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2tbsp wholegrain mustard
• 1tbsp maple syrup or large pinch brown sugar
• 1 large carrot, peeled with a julienne peeler
• 1 green apple, cut into thin batons
• 1 fennel bulb, finely shredded, fronds reserved
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• ½ white cabbage, finely shredded

Method

• 1 Put the pork in a glass/plastic container. Combine the rub ingredients then rub all over the pork. Cover and chill overnight.
• 2 The next day, heat the oven to 130C Fan. Put the onion, orange and bay in a large lidded casserole. Add the ginger beer and barbecue sauce, and put the pork on top. Cover and cook in the oven for 3½ hrs, until the pork pulls apart easily.
• 3 Remove the pork from the pot and set aside to cool, then simmer the sauce over a medium heat for 15 mins, until reduced and thickened. Set aside to cool.
• 4 Once cooled, transfer the pork and sauce to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• 5 Defrost the pork in the fridge overnight. When ready to cook, heat the oven to 150C Fan. Put the pork and sauce in a large roasting tin. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30-40 mins.
• 6 To serve, toss together all the slaw ingredients in a large bowl. Use 2 forks to shred the pork, and mix well with the sauce and juices in the pan. Serve in small rolls, with the slaw.

Fruity braised lamb shanks with tabbouleh

Lamb shanks are slow-cooked until meltingly tender in a richly spiced sauce that improves on reheating. Don’t skip the fresh tabbouleh - it adds a vibrant lift for both flavor and your presentation of the final dish.

TIP: If you can’t get hold of lamb shanks, then lamb neck will work well too. You might need to adjust the cooking time to account for smaller pieces.

• Serves 6
• Prep 30 mins
• Cook 3 hrs
• Per serving: 812 cals, 32g fat, 14g sat fat, 61g carbs

Ingredients

• 2tsp ground cumin
• 1tsp each ground cinnamon, ground coriander, ground allspice
• 6 lamb shanks
• Olive oil, for rubbing
• 2 red onions, sliced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium parsnips, peeled and sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2 sprigs rosemary
• 300g mixed dried fruit, dates and apricots
• 4tbsp pomegranate molasses
• 450ml fruity red wine
• 300ml chicken or lamb stock
• 1tbsp finely chopped preserved lemon
• Couscous or rice, to serve (optional)
• For the tabbouleh topping: 
• 50g couscous 100g bunch parsley, finely chopped 1 pomegranate, seeded

Method

• 1 Toast the spices in a dry pan for 1 min, season and set aside.
• 2 Put a large heavy-based casserole over medium heat. Rub the lamb shanks all over with olive oil, then sear in batches for about 5 mins, turning often, until lightly browned. Transfer to a plate.
• 3 Add the onions to the casserole and cook for 2-3 mins until softened. Add the carrots, parsnips and garlic, then cook for 2 mins more. Stir in the spices and rosemary to coat the veg, then add the dried fruits, molasses, wine, stock and preserved lemon. Bring to a simmer, scraping any sticky bits from the bottom of the pan. Heat the oven to 160C Fan.
• 4 Return the shanks to the casserole, cover with a damp scrunched-up sheet of baking paper, then cover. Transfer to the oven for 3 hrs, turning once, until the lamb is tender and falling off the bone.
• 5 Cool, transfer the lamb and sauce to a freezer-safe bag or container, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• 6 To serve, defrost the lamb in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a casserole in the oven at 160C Fan for 1 hr until piping hot.
• 7 Meanwhile, put the couscous in a heatproof bowl and stir in 50ml boiling water. Cover and leave for 5 mins, then fluff with a fork and stir in the parsley and pomegranate seeds.
• Sprinkle over the lamb just before serving.

There’s something undeniably comforting about a jam-filled bake. Sweet, nostalgic, and perfect for an easy weekend treat or an afternoon tea, this all-star collection puts that classic spoonful of jam centre stage.

For a playful crowd-pleaser, our wagon wheel traybake layers crumbly biscuit with gooey marshmallow and jam, all finished with a smooth chocolate topping. If a softer slice is more your style, the fluffy jammy sponge delivers on lightness, thanks to whisked egg whites. And for something quick and cute, the thumbprint cookies are the ideal jam-packed bite.

With the weather turning colder, these sweet treats are the perfect comfort foods - and a great excuse to get baking this weekend.

Fluffy jammy sponge

Our softer take on a traditional jam sponge feels wonderfully old-school. The whisked egg whites give it a delicate lift, while the almonds add a moorish richness that will keep everyone coming back for more. Fill your kitchen with the delicious smells of freshly baked cake and enjoy a slice with a piping-hot cuppa.

Store the cake in an airtight tin or cake box at room temperature for the best texture. Chilling can make the sponge slightly firmer over time, so if you want to make the cake further in advance, it’s better to wrap and freeze the plain sponges, then simply defrost and assemble the cake when needed.

• Serves 12
• Prep 20 mins
• Cook 25 mins, plus cooling
• Per serving: 514 cals, 30g fat, 17g sat fat, 55g carbs

Ingredients

• 225g unsalted butter, softened
• 225g golden caster sugar
• 4 medium free-range eggs
• 175g self-raising flour
• 50g ground almonds
• 2tbsp milk
• Approx 4tbsp jam
• For the buttercream:
• 150g unsalted butter, softened
• 300g icing sugar, plus extra to dust
• You will need:
• 2 x 20cm sandwich tins, lined, and a piping bag fitted with a round nozzle

Method

• 1 Heat the oven to 160C Fan. Cream the butter with the sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 whole eggs and 2 egg yolks, reserving the whites. Once combined, add the flour and almonds in 3 stages. Add a pinch of salt, then beat in the milk.
• 2 Whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks then, using a large metal spoon, fold into the cake dough to loosen the mixture.
• 3 Divide between the 2 tins. Bake for 25 mins until risen, springy to the touch and a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean.
• 4 Cool for 10 mins in the tins, turn out and leave to cool fully. Meanwhile, for the buttercream, beat together the butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy.
• 5 Spread one of the cakes with jam, then pipe on the buttercream. Top with the other cake. Serve, dusted with icing sugar.

2. Thumbprint cookies

These charming little biscuits are quick to make and even quicker to disappear. The buttery dough bakes to a soft, tender crumb, with the jam adding sweetness and shine. Ideal for gifting, filling the biscuit tin, or freezing ahead so you can bake off a fresh batch whenever you fancy.

Sprinkle a little demerara sugar on top before baking for a subtle crunch and added sparkle.

• Makes 16
• Prep 10 mins, plus chilling
• Cook 15 mins, plus cooling
• Per serving: 148 cals, 8g fat, 5g sat fat, 17g carbs

Ingredients

• 200g plain flour Pinch of salt
• 150g unsalted butter, diced
• 75g golden caster sugar
• 1tsp vanilla paste
• 1 medium free-range egg yolk About
• 4tbsp jam
• You will need:
• 20x25cm baking tray, lined

Method

• 1 Heat the oven to 180C Fan. Place all the ingredients, except the jam, in an electric stand mixer, then beat until thoroughly combined. Knead the dough briefly to bring it together in a ball, then shape into 16 equal-size balls on a lightly floured surface, transferring each to the lined baking tray as you go.
• 2 Using your thumb, make an imprint in the centre of each ball. Chill in the fridge for 1 hr or freeze for 15-18 mins.
• 3 Fill the imprints with jam, then bake for 15 mins. Remove from the oven and leave to cool on the baking tray, then serve or store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Wagon Wheel tray bake

This retro-inspired traybake is far less effort than the classic biscuit but is just as delicious. The crisp, buttery layers hold their shape beautifully against the gooey marshmallow and jam centre, while the chocolate topping adds the perfect finishing touch. Great for sharing and guaranteed to impress!

For an extra glossy and snappy chocolate topping, you can experiment with tempering the chocolate. Leave out the butter and melt the chocolate gently, then let it cool for a few minutes while stirring. This helps the cocoa butter crystals stabilise, giving a smooth shine and satisfying snap when set.

• Serves 12
• Prep 30 mins, plus chilling
• Cook 10-12 mins, plus cooling
• Per serving: 400 cals, 18g fat, 11g sat fat, 54g carbs

Ingredients

• For the biscuit base:
• 185g unsalted butter, cut into chunks
• 115g icing sugar 1tsp vanilla extract 280g plain flour 1tbsp milk
• For the filling and topping:
• 200g pack marshmallows
• 5tbsp jam
• 200g milk chocolate, melted with 10g butter
• You will need:
• 2 x 20x25cm baking trays, lined

Method

• 1 Heat the oven to 180C Fan. Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla, flour, a pinch of salt and the milk, then mix again until the dough clumps together. Knead briefly, then chill for 1 hr.
• 2 Using the tray lining paper as a guide, roll out 2 x 20x25cm rectangles of dough, about ½cm thick, on a lightly floured surface. Line the trays with the paper and dough, then prick the surface all over with a fork; chill for 30 mins.
• 3 Bake for 10-12 mins, then leave to cool.
• 4 For the filling, melt the marshmallows in the microwave for 10-20 seconds. Spread one biscuit with jam, then marshmallow. Top with the remaining biscuit; leave to set.
• 5 Turn out on to a board and cover with the melted chocolate. Leave to set, then serve.

Recipes and food styling: Jen Bedloe
Photos: Kate Whitaker
Styling: Davina Maji

With the warm days of summer well and truly upon us, there’s no better time to fire up the grill and take your entertaining alfresco. Whether you’re a charcoal purist or prefer the convenience of gas or electric, barbecuing adds smokiness, intensifies flavours, and imparts extra layers of deliciousness — transforming simple ingredients into special meals with very little effort.

If you’re new to outdoor cooking, our guide on how to BBQ is a great place to start. For those ready to upgrade their set-up, the Weber Master-Touch Charcoal BBQ offers classic results with smoky depth, while the Ninja woodfire BBQ grill delivers modern versatility with ease.

Inspired by the flavours of the Mediterranean, and my own Australian roots, this easy barbecue menu makes the most of your grill skills, with simple sharing dishes that look and taste spectacular, while being secretly easy to pull together

All the elements can be cooked outside on the grill, so you can mingle with guests while dinner cooks - plus, everything can be prepped well in advance, making it the perfect solution for effortless entertaining.

1. Charred prawns with lemon and dill butter

Doused in a garlicky herb butter, our super juicy prawns take on a delicious char from the barbecue. They’re served on quick homemade flatbread to mop up all that smoky, buttery goodness, and the whole dish comes together in less than 30 minutes for an easy sharing starter to serve with a cold glass of wine.

The butter can be made a couple of days ahead and kept in the fridge. The flatbread dough can be mixed several hours ahead too. Leave to rest, covered at room temperature, then roll it out just before cooking.

"We used M&S Collection organic Madagascan frozen raw prawns," says Woman&Home Food Director Jen Bedloe. "They come partially peeled for great flavour and presentation without the messiness of whole shell-on prawns. If you can’t get these, regular whole prawns are great too, just serve them with plenty of napkins.

• Serves 6
• Prep 20 mins | Cook 15 mins
• Per serving: 357 cals, 23g fat, 14g sat fat, 22g carbs

Ingredients

• 24 large whole prawns, peeled, heads and tails attached
• Large pinch pul biber or chilli flakes, to serve
• Lemon wedges to serve
• For the flatbreads:
• 1tsp cumin seeds, toasted, lightly crushed
• 150g self raising flour
• 100g plain natural yoghurt
• 1tbps olive oil
• For the butter:
• 150g unsalted butter
• 2tbsp each; finely chopped dill and parsley, plus extra to garnish
• 2 preserved lemons, skin only, chopped, plus extra to garnish
• 2 large garlic clove, crushed

Method

• 1 Mix all the ingredients for the flatbreads in a bowl with a pinch of salt to make a soft dough. Knead a few times until smooth, then cover and set aside to rest for 30 mins.
• 2 Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small pan. Stir in the rest of the butter ingredients and a pinch of salt, then set aside.
• 3 Heat/light the barbecue. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a rough circle, about 5mm thick. Grill over medium/indirect heat for 5mins each side, until charred and a little puffed. Transfer to a serving board/plate and brush with some of the butter.
• 5 Grill the prawns over high/direct heat for 2-3 mins each side, brushing with the butter several times, until pink and charred. Pile them onto the flatbread, drizzle with more of the butter and top with extra herbs, preserved lemon and a pinch of pul biber. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

2. Spiced lamb cutlets with charred pepper salsa

A simple spiced glaze and smoky salsa, inspired by the Turkish condiment ezme ramp up the flavour of this chargrilled meaty main. Cutlets make it a little more fancy for entertaining, but classic chops, or even lamb skewers would work well too.

"The salsa benefits from being made ahead, allowing all the flavours to mingle and mellow," says Jen. "You can char all the veggies under the grill if you don’t want to fire up the barbecue especially, and it will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you’re short on time, a jar of Ajvar or romesco sauce would both make a good substitute.

• Serves 6
• Prep 30 mins | Cook 20 mins, plus marinating
• Per serving: 525 cals, 28g fat, 11g sat fat, 9g carbs

Ingredients

• 15-18 lamb cutlets (about 1.8 kg)
• 2tbsp za’atar, plus extra to serve
• 2tsp baharat
• 2tbsp olive oil
• 2tbsp pomegranate molasses, plus extra to serve
• Handful salad leaves/soft herbs, to garnish
• For the salsa:
• 1 whole garlic bulb
• 3 red peppers
• 1 large banana shallots, halved lengthwise (skin on)
• 2 tomatoes
• 2 long red chillies
• 2-3tsp sherry vinegar

Method

• 1 Put the lamb, za’atar, baharat, oil, pomegranate molasses, and a large pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix well, then cover and chill for at least 2 hrs, or overnight.
• 2 Heat/light the barbecue. Wrap the garlic in foil and put on the grill, along with the rest of the veggies for the salsa. Grill over medium/indirect heat, turning occasionally, until very soft and well charred (about 15 mins for the tomatoes/chillies, longer for the rest). Put the veg in a bowl and cover. Set aside to cool, then peel and discard the burnt skins and seeds (don’t worry if some of the charred bits get in). Finely chop the veg and squeeze the garlic from its skin. Mix in a bowl and season with the sherry vinegar and salt.
• 4 Cook the lamb over direct/high heat for 3-4 mins each side for medium, or until cooked to your liking. Serve with the salsa, an extra drizzle of molasses, more za’atar, and some picked soft herbs or baby leaves, if liked.

3. Grilled courgette and goat’s cheese salad

This vibrant salad layers summer veg, with creamy whipped goat’s cheese for a refreshing side dish that is as pretty as it is tasty. We love it with the lamb, but it also works well with simply cooked salmon or even a roast chicken.

If using frozen broad beans, blanch and refresh them under cold water, then double-pod to remove the tough outer layer, or swap for garden peas instead.

• Serves 6
• Prep 30 mins | Cook 15 mins
• Per serving: 655 cals, 40g fat, 13g sat fat, 37g carbs

Ingredients

• 140g giant cous cous
• Oil, for drizzling
• 1.2kg fresh broadbeans (in pods), or use frozen instead (see tip)
• 2 large courgettes, thinly sliced lengthwise
• 1 lemon halved
• 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 100g pitted green olives
• 250g thick Greek yogurt
• 2 x 125g log soft goats cheese
• Bunch mint, picked and chopped (reserve a few leaves to garnish)
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 2tbsp capers
• 50g pinenuts, toasted

Method

• 1 Heat/light the barbecue. Cook the cous cous according to pack instructions. Drain and toss with a drizzle of oil.
• 2 Grill the broad beans in their pods, and the halved lemons, cut side down, over indirect/medium heat, for 10-15 mins until charred. Set aside to cool, then pod the beans and toss with the cous cous, along with the fennel and olives.
• 3 Brush the courgette slices with a little oil and grill for 2-3 mins each side until charred and tender.
• 4 Mix the yogurt and 125g of goat’s cheese with the chopped herbs, garlic, capers and some seasoning. Spread over a platter, then top with the cous cous mixture and courgettes. Squeeze over the charred lemon, and drizzle with oil.
• 5 Blob over the rest of the goat’s cheese and finish with the pine nuts and reserved mint leaves.

4. Yoghurt panna cotta with spiced pineapple

"Creamy panna cotta and sweetly spiced pineapple make a perfect pairing in this easy tropical pud," says Jen. "Gently poached on the grill, the pineapple creates its own sticky sauce, and both elements can be made well ahead, for a simple yet impressive end to any summer meal."

Make the panna cottas and prepare the pineapple 1-2 days ahead and keep in the fridge. Then simply cook the pineapple and unmould the panna cottas when you’re ready to serve. If you prefer, cook the pineapple in the oven, at 180C Fan for about 40 mins until tender, removing the foil halfway through the cooking time.

• Serves 6
• Prep 20 mins, plus chilling | Cook 50 mins
• Per serving: 331 cals, 16g fat, 8g sat fat, 41g carbs

Ingredients

• For the panna cotta:
• 3 platinum grade gelatin leaves
• 300ml single cream
• 1 vanilla pod, seeds scraped (reserve pod for the pineapple)
• 90g runny honey (acacia or blossom)
• 500g Greek yogurt
• For the pineapple:
• Small pineapple, peeled and cored, cut into wedges
• 100g light brown sugar
• 30g piece ginger, sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 star anise
• 20g unsalted butter
• 1 orange, thickly sliced
• 50g pistachios, roughly chopped
• You will need: 6 x 200ml dariole moulds, lightly greased

Method

• 1 Soak the gelatine leaves in cold water for 5 mins to soften. Meanwhile, heat the cream, vanilla seeds and honey in a small saucepan over low heat until steaming. Remove from the heat, squeeze the soaked gelatin leaves to remove excess water, then stir into the warm cream mixture until fully melted.
• 2 Stir the yogurt into the cream mixture, then divide between the greased moulds. Put them on a tray and chill for at least 4 hrs, until set.
• 3 Light/heat the barbecue. Toss all the ingredients for the pineapple in a barbecue-safe oven tray. Cover with foil and cook over indirect heat for 30 mins, until the pineapple is tender. Remove the foil and cook for a further 20 mins until the sauce is thickened and syrupy. Set aside to cool to room temperature. Discard the ginger, vanilla pod, orange and spices.
• 4 To serve, briefly dip the panna cotta moulds in hot water to loosen. Turn out onto serving plates and serve with the pineapple, topped with some chopped pistachios, and some of the syrup.

Credits: Recipes and food styling by Jess Meyer, Assisted by Catrina Gell

When the weather is good and those sun gods are shining down on us, there’s nothing better than transporting mealtimes to the great outdoors.

We love to host alfresco. It’s a much more leisurely, easy-going way to entertain and eat, and it means there’s not a stack of washing up waiting for you in the kitchen. Setting up your outdoor feast doesn’t have to be time-consuming, and you can easily transform those traditional soggy sarnies into something much more special. What’s more, you can team up with friends to share the load.

Here, we show you how to combine some easily transportable picnic recipes – think herby bread scrolls, zingy raspberry cordial for adding to whatever chilled fizz you fancy, a super-crunchy salad, a cheesy dip, and a gorgeously simple blueberry and orange bake. You could also complement with some tasty, healthy picnic snacks from the supermarket for extra ease.

And of course, no picnic is complete without a little style inspiration. Whether you prefer breezy dresses or laid-back separates, our what to wear to a picnic ideas will help you look as good as your spread tastes.

Don’t forget to pack the picnic blanket and some ice for the drinks, and you’ll be getting those relaxed feel-good vibes all summer long.

1. Spinach and mozzarella scrolls

Our simple shortcut here is to use bought pizza dough, and once it’s shaped and proved, it creates a fluffy bread-like bake. Our scrolls are filled with a mix of mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil and pine nuts for a really moreish bite. Vary to suit your taste. It’s easier than you think to create the scroll effect using a cake tin to keep everything neat.

If your cake tin is quite deep, the buns might not brown very well. You can sit the base on top of a smaller cake tin to raise the level of the base. Proving bought pizza dough creates a fluffy bread-like bake.

• Makes 16 rolls
• Prep 20 mins, plus proving | Cook 50-60 mins
• Per roll: 194 cals, 8g fat, 4g sat fat, 23g carbs
• You will need: 23cm cake tin, fully lined with baking paper

Ingredients

• 4 frozen sourdough pizza dough balls, defrosted (we used Northern Dough Co)
• 40g butter, melted
• For the filling:
• 240g bag spinach, blanched, excess water squeezed and roughly chopped
• 4 spring onions, thinly sliced
• 3tbsp cream cheese Good grating nutmeg
• 1tsp garlic granules
• 30g pack basil, chopped
• 2tbsp toasted pine nuts, chopped
• 125g ball mozzarella, chopped
• 5tbsp freshly grated Parmesan

Method

• 1 Combine the filling ingredients; season.
• 2 Working one at a time, roll out each dough ball to 22x20cm. Divide the filling between each, spreading evenly.
• 3 From the short end, roll up loosely (filling on the inside); cut into 4 equal pieces. Transfer to the tin, cut side up. Leave a little room for them to rise. Cover with cling film; set aside in a warm place to prove for 1 hr or until the dough feels springy and has risen.
• 4 Heat the oven to 170C Fan. Brush the scrolls generously with melted butter and bake for 50-60 mins until golden brown. Cover with a tea towel while they cool to keep them soft and fluffy, or immediately wrap while warm to take on your picnic.

2. Antipasti platter

Select some of your favourite cured meats and deli buys such as olives, cornichons, artichokes and tomatoes to help make your spread look rather splendid. We’ve made a delicious creamy dip to go with the crunchy crudites seasoned with our secret ingredient seasoning – Worcestershire sauce.

Keep crudites in a sealed container in the fridge, then pack them in a cool box with a handful of ice cubes to keep them crunchy.

• Serves 4-6
• Ready in 15 mins
• Per serving (based on 6): 338 cals, 26g fat, 15g sat fat, 7g carbs

Ingredients

• For the cheese dip:
• 300g soft goat’s cheese
• 8tbsp soured cream
• 1tsp white wine vinegar
• 1tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1tbsp freshly snipped chives
• 200g cured meats, various
• 100g radishes, trimmed
• 2 carrots, peeled, cut into batons
• 100g sugar snap peas
• 1 green chicory, leaves separated
• To serve:
• Breadsticks, crackers, cornichons, pickled onions, green olives, artichokes, slow-roast or sunblush tomatoes

Method

• 1 For the dip, blend together the goat’s cheese and soured cream until just combined. Stir in the vinegar, Worcestershire sauce and chives, and season. Put in a small container or jar and chill.
• 2 At the picnic, assemble the meats, crudités and cheese dip on a board and dig in.

3. Waldorf salad riff

Apple, celery, and juicy red grapes, tossed with a crunchy style of lettuce, avoid sad, limp salad leaf alternatives at your next picnic. The star ingredients here are the roasted walnuts - crunchy, sweet, and completely addictive. The mustardy/tarragon dressing is so much better than shop-bought. Next time, drizzle the mustardy tarragon dressing over roasted veg and chickpeas.

If you’re a fan of blue cheese, that would also work a treat in this salad, or go for cubes of smoked cheese.

• Serves 4
• Prep 15 mins | Cook 10 mins
• Per serving: 460 cals, 36g fat, 8g sat fat, 27g carbs

Ingredients

• 1tbsp each chopped tarragon, flat-leaf parsley and chives
• 100g walnuts
• 1tbsp dark brown soft sugar
• 1tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 apples, cored and finely sliced 1tbsp lemon juice
• 3 celery sticks, finely sliced
• 1 small head Romaine or baby gem lettuce, shredded
• 250g red grapes, halved or quartered if big
• For the dressing:
• 4tbsp mayonnaise
• 4tbsp crème fraiche
• 1tsp English mustard
• 1tsp apple cider vinegar Squeeze lemon juice

Method

• 1 Heat the oven to 180C fan. Put the walnuts on a lined baking tray, and toss with the sugar, balsamic vinegar and a pinch of salt. Roast for 10 mins. Cool then pack in a small container.
• 2 Toss the apples in a squeeze of lemon juice to stop them going brown, then mix with the celery, lettuce and grapes. Pack in a sealed salad container.
• 3 In a jar, mix the dressing ingredients with 1-2tbsp cold water. Pack everything up separately and, at the picnic, toss everything together, drizzle over the dressing and top with the walnuts.

4. Orange drizzle loaf with blueberries

This cake is so simple to make and has the lightest and fudgiest texture. You’ll be the talk of the picnic. We’ve gone for a combo of orange zest and blueberries, but you could easily swap for lemon and raspberry.

We’ve served the buttercream separately, so it’s easier to pack the cake to take on your picnic - if you prefer, pipe or spoon on the buttercream at home. If you have any leftovers, they will keep well for a few days in a tin somewhere cool.

• Serves 8
• Prep 15 mins | Cook 1 hr
• Per serving: 637 cals, 34g fat, 21g sat fat, 82g carbs
• You will need: 2lb/900g loaf tin, fully lined Skewer or cocktail stick

Ingredients

• 200g caster sugar
• 200g salted butter, softened
• 200g self-raising flour
• 150g natural yogurt
• 3 medium free-range eggs
• ½tsp cinnamon
• 100g blueberries, plus extra to serve
• For the drizzle:
• Juice 2 oranges
• 50g sugar
• For the butter icing:
• 100g salted butter, softened
• 200g icing sugar, sifted
• Finely grated zest
• ½ orange (save the juice for the drizzle)

Method

• 1 Heat the oven to 160C fan. Using an electric mixer, mix the sugar, butter, flour, yogurt, eggs and cinnamon until combined. Fold in 75g blueberries.
• 2 Spoon the mixture into the tin, then poke in the remaining 25g blueberries. Bake for 50 mins to 1 hr, or until a skewer comes out clean.
• 3 For the drizzle, mix the orange juice with the sugar. As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, use a skewer to poke holes in the top, then drizzle the orange juice mixture over the top. Put the cake – leaving it in its tin – on a wire rack to cool.
• 4 Once the cake is cool, slice, then wrap well in baking paper tied with string. Make the buttercream by beating the butter and icing sugar with the orange zest until smooth and whipped. Spoon into a container or jar and pack with the loaf cake. Serve slices spread with the icing and extra blueberries.

5. Raspberry spritz

Our fruity homemade cordial works well with sparkling water, fizz, or added to a G&T. For more of a cocktail feel, garnish yours with ice if you have some handy, and why not add some fresh mint or basil. If you can make this recipe ahead and it will keep it chilled in a sealed bottle for up to 1 week.

• Makes about 300ml
• Prep 5 mins | Cook 10 mins, plus cooling
• You will need: Sterilised bottle with leakproof cap

Ingredients

• 300g raspberries,
• 300g caster sugar,
• 1tbsp white wine vinegar

Method

• 1 Combine all ingredients in a pan. Cook on low, mashing with a fork, for 8 mins or until syrupy.
• 2 Sieve, discard the seeds then rinse the sieve. Mix the raspberry pulp with 300ml water, then sieve again to remove any seeds. Pour the mixture into the pan, stir well and boil for 1 min. Pour into the bottle and seal.

We're amidst a dinner party revival. Hosting at home is more cost-effective than dining out - and there's also more opportunity to get creative. Social media is awash with tablescaping ideas, themed drinks and ways to enjoy food at home.

But things have moved on since a traditional sit-down meal followed by some light entertainment, Come Dine With Me-style. And while vol-au-vents and devilled eggs have a retro charm, modern hosts are getting more creative with dinner parties, experimenting with cuisines from across the globe. "We’re seeing a real shift towards more frequent, informal hosting," says Karen Thomas, head of homeware design at M&S. "Staying in has become just as exciting as going out – and with the right pieces and planning, it can feel just as special."

According to the World Happiness Report 2025, sharing meals is one of the strongest drivers of happiness worldwide. And 40% of Brits also say creating the right ‘ambience and atmosphere’ is a key part of enjoying the evening, according to a recent report from M&S.

Here are 32 creative ways to enjoy food at home, whether it's a family dinner, hosting a few friends or a full-blown dinner party, plus the finishing touches that will make it feel like a real occasion.

32 creative ways to enjoy food at home

A super-sized cheeseboard

I firmly believe that a cheeseboard shouldn't just be for Christmas - it can be enjoyed any time of year and works particularly well in a group setting. Mix up your cheeseboard seasonal fruits and vegetables to reflect the season, pairing your favourite cheese with crackers, fresh crusty bread and an assortment of jellies and chutneys. A wander through your local food market might inspire some alternatives as well. Opt for a larger board where everything can be easily arranged in the same place.

A simple way to decorate a cheeseboard is to arrange your cheeses in the middle of the board (a baked camembert makes a good centre point for dipping) and then fill in the gaps, working outward. Pile on slices of apples and pears (a fanned effect will raise marks for presentation), whole fruits like cherries and blueberries, piles of nuts, layers of cured meats, crackers, and sprigs of fresh herbs if you have them to hand. Pots of chutney, relishes, jellies and jam can be stored on the cheeseboard or by the side, and don't forget an extra basket of bread if this is the main event for guests.

A garden picnic

Picnics aren't just for the park - a garden picnic has all of the charm and none of the hassle. Hannah Burden Teh, Brand Director of Bathtub Gin, says there's been a shift towards garden hosting. She explains, "Hosting a picnic in your garden is the perfect way to entertain friends or family in the summer. It’s the ideal balance of effortlessness and charm.

"The beauty of it is you don’t need to worry about transporting food and drinks or, crucially, finding a toilet in a park. And if the weather turns (after all, we are in Britain!), you can always dash inside without missing a beat.

"For drinks, make a big pitcher of something simple but delicious - a fruity punch. Pair it with easy-to-eat snacks: cheese, olives, and charcuterie, perfect for grazing. Lay it all out on a beautiful blanket, throw in a bit of bunting, and voilà!"

Aperitivo hour

Take notes from the Italians and host an aperitivo hour before dinner or as its own event. "Aperitivo hour is a long-standing Italian tradition that typically takes place before dinner and involves something like a light drink and some nibbles," drinks expert and Trade Marketing Manager at Disaronno International UK, Aiste Valiukaite, told us. "It's a huge part of Italian cocktail culture, and you'll find it all over the country."

Lighter drinks, such as spritz or prosecco, are generally the drink of choice during an aperitivo hour. Snacks could be simple, such as olives, nuts, crisps, bite-sized bruschetta and small starters - there are no hard and fast rules for this Italian tradition. You'll find aperitivo hours all over Italy, with Milan, Turin, and Venice considered its biggest hubs. Food-wise, you'll see options like cheese boards, cured meats, olives, crackers, and sometimes mini pizzas, quiches, or small plates of pasta.

Alfresco dining

Caveat: This is weather-dependent. But there's something magical about entertaining in the garden, no matter what food you serve. Dress up a long table with a brightly coloured or pastel tablecloth and add fresh flowers and pillar candles in storm vases or tea lights in jam jars (it's not meant to look perfect) before laying out plates and cutlery for an easy yet effective outdoor setting.

Food can be buffet-style with quiche, salad, cheeses, fruit, or even shop-bought snacks. Regardless of what you serve, the setting shows real effort and is bound to impress guests. Tree lanterns also look magical for events that carry on into the evening.

An indoor picnic

If it's too cold to subject guests to an outdoor picnic, where they'll likely shiver while eating their sausage rolls, move things inside and adopt the same casual eating style indoors. This works particularly well with a French-farmhouse-style spread of cheeses, crusty bread, grapes, meat, and wine, with quiche and pate to add more substance to the meal. It's also a great excuse to invest in some fine French wine for your guests.

Canapés and fizz

One of the most elegant and classic culinary combinations will always be canapés and fizz. There are plenty of variations on this, including champagne and caviar, prosecco and cured meats, cava and olives on a stick - you can be as elaborate or as simple as you want.

Pre-made cocktail blinis make hosting easy. You only need to pop them in the oven for five minutes and add your chosen toppings. Cream cheese makes an excellent base for almost anything, and pretty herbs like sprigs, thyme, or dill will dress them up easily as a finishing touch.

A spritz and snack party

If you want a variation on fizz and canapés, try a spritz and snack party, which encompasses pretty much any type of finger food. While an Aperol spritz is a firm favourite among many, Limoncello spritzes and Disarrono spritzes are popular options with a lower ABV.

"People are becoming more mindful of their alcohol intake, which is fuelling the rise of longer, lower-ABV serves. These drinks provide a refreshing, slow-sipping experience and deliver great value for money," drinks expert and Trade Marketing Manager at Disaronno International UK, Aiste Valiukaite, told us.

"To recreate spritzes at home, you'll need essentials such as your chosen liqueur, prosecco, and soda water, with sliced fresh lemons to garnish and plenty of ice."

French bistro

The French get a lot of airtime regarding dinner party themes and ideas; atmospheric dining is something they do incredibly well. For a romantic evening for two or dinner with friends, nod towards a French bistro with linen table clothes (checked red and white if you really want to lean in), taper candles and soft French music.

On the menu, try classics such as beef bourguignon, coq au vin, and crème brûlée (shop-bought is fine here, unless you're advanced in the kitchen!). Retro, yes, but also very charming.

A Mexican fiesta

Mexican food is an explosion of colour and flavours. A Mexican spread could include nachos, tacos, and quesadillas as finger food, as well as bigger dishes like enchiladas and burritos. Decorate the house in vibrant shades and patterns to continue the colourful theme through to your decor. Frozen margaritas can easily be whipped up in a blender for a cooling drink during summer.

An Italian feast

Italian cuisine also offers plenty of inspiration for a decadent spread to be enjoyed with friends. Serve bite-sized bruschetta platters of cheese, cured meats, roasted vegetables, Tuscan-style chicken, and a few pasta dishes for an Italian feast that will please a crowd.

Don't forget the table, too. " We’re seeing customers really lean into creating a sense of occasion at home,” says Karen Thomas, head of homeware design at M&S. “Whether that’s layering textures and colours with playful cabbageware, boho chic picnicware or channelling Italian summer vibes with Amalfi-inspired ceramics, tablescaping has become an expression of personality and a huge part of the fun of hosting.”

A bruschetta bar

Another Italian classic, bruschetta, is traditionally served with dressed chopped tomatoes on top, but plenty of other toppings work just as well. Give guests a choice of crushed pea and mint, ricotta with figs and honey, a medley of vegetables, or roasted chicken in a lemon mayonnaise dressing - feel free to get creative and stray away from traditional Italian recipes and create your own bruschetta-inspired finger food. The base can be toasted sourdough or focaccia, a spongy bread that will hold heavy fillings well.

A DIY cocktail bar

Encourage guests to join in the fun with a DIY cocktail bar. "It's easy to get carried away thinking you need a well-stocked bar, but all you need are essentials that can be easily used in various drinks," drinks expert and Trade Marketing Manager at Disaronno International UK, Aiste Valiukaite, told us.

"A standard cocktail shaker and strainer will do the trick! For ingredients, having mixers like soda water and tonic is always helpful. Dried fruit slices are an easy garnish to add in a hurry, although nothing beats a fresh orange or lemon slice in a spritz. Versatile spirits such as vodka, rum, or gin can easily be added to most popular cocktails."

A movie night with plenty of snacks

Watching a film with friends or the whole family together can be a real Friday night occasion. As well as something easy like pizza or burgers, fill snack bowls with popcorn and confectionery. For a healthier option, frozen grapes and strawberries dipped in dark chocolate also make great snacking options.

A classic dinner party

There's nothing wrong with the original three-course dinner format. In fact, as it's more of a rarity nowadays, reverting to the classic formula can feel novel.

There are thoughtful ways to personalise a dinner party to bring it up to speed. Try adding different heights to your tablescape with taped candles and fresh wildflowers in various vases. Tie thin ribbons around glass stems so guests don't lose their drinks when mingling, and consider sharing starters or mains for a more casual dining style.

A show-stopping punch and nibbles

A serve-yourself punch is back in vogue and is an easy centrepiece for a gathering or party that requires little maintenance. "For hosting, pre-batch a few punches that can be finished at the last minute with ice and garnishes," Hannah Burden-Teh, Global Brand Director for Bathtub Gin, told us. "This way, everyone can help themselves, and you’re not playing bartender all evening." It's a stylish yet informal party spread, accompanied by easy snacks such as a cheeseboard, bowls of crisps, olives, bread, and dips.

Afternoon tea

One of Britain's favourite pastimes, afternoon tea, shouldn't just be reserved for fancy hotels. There are three main components to an afternoon tea spread; finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream and tiny cakes. How you present this is up to you, but digging out an antique teapot or sourcing one in a local charity shop will add a vintage touch to the occasion.

A murder mystery evening

Continuing the retro theme, a murder mystery evening is a fun way to mix up a dinner party. Now this isn't for everyone, but the old-school party game has seen a revival with those who don't mind a little role play (for context, the global market for these games is projected to reach a quarter of a billion dollars by 2032, according to Business Research Insights). You can buy a kit online (Masters of Mystery has a great range) and then all that's left to do is plan your meal and convince your guests to get into the spirit of things with fancy dress.

'70-style fondue night

In a group setting, sharing food is often the best option. Host a '70s-style fondue dinner party with a massive pot of melted cheese, bread, crackers, and vegetables for dipping. You could also double up with a chocolate fondue served with strawberries, marshmallows, and biscuits. This is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

Homemade pizzas

Making pizzas at home is a fun experience the whole family can get involved with. You can either make a base from scratch or buy ready-made dough that you'll just need to roll out with some flour, and then add a tomato sauce and whatever cheeses and toppings you like. Extra points if you have a pizza oven in the garden, but if not a normal oven will do.

Greek mezze

Greek food is designed for sharing, with breads and dips served alongside roasted meats and huge salads packed with fresh herbs. Particularly appropriate for summer dining, Greek food isn't difficult to prepare, and dips can be whizzed up in advance. Meat and fish can be served simply in kebabs or with a light marinade under the grill or on the BBQ.

A one-pot dinner party

One of the easiest ways to feed a crowd is with a big one-pot meal to which guests can help themselves. The dish could be a hearty stew, pasta bake, curry, or chilli con carne and can be prepared in advance in a slow cooker, so there's no stress on the evening itself.

Curry night with all the trimmings

Curry is universally popular and great for group settings - whether you want to go for Indian, Thai, Malaysian or another cuisine. If you want a helping hand in the kitchen, there are plenty of upmarket curry kits that contain flavour-packed spice mixes and full instructions for creating authentic dishes at home. Load up your food station with starters, dips like cucumber raita, a cucumber and tomato salad, chutneys, crackers and warm breads to impress your guests.

A pasta party

For an informal dinner with an Italian theme, cook a variety of pasta dishes that can be passed around the table for a warm and informal dinner set up. Think spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, creamy fettuccine, baked gnocchi, and cheesy risotto. Jugs of wine and big bowls of salads with a homemade vinaigrette will add to the rustic theme.

Bring-a-dish buffet

Not so confident in the kitchen? Ask each guest to bring a dish. Though some hosts find this concept divisive due to the traditional roles of guest and host, it can be a useful hosting format for groups of friends who want to get together without piling on the pressure. Plus, it's a fun way to try new dishes and boost community, particularly if guests bring a signature dish or family recipe with a story behind it.

Brunch

The joy of brunch nowadays is that it can be served anytime. Fill a long table with breakfast classics, like sweet waffles and fluffy pancakes, fruit, yoghurt, scrambled eggs, and avocado with racks of toast, for a delightful spread for friends.

Mimosas (or Bucks Fizz, depending on how you like your orange juice to bubbles ratio: Bucks Fizz is typically 2:1 champagne to orange juice, while Mimosas are an even split) are also a great addition to a brunch spread, and champagne or prosecco can easily be swapped for a non-alcoholic version or sparkling water.

Tapas

Another crowd pleaser, tapas spreads can be as varied as you like and lend themselves to time-poor chefs who need to throw something together. Stuffed olives, tangy anchovies in olive oil, Spanish cheeses, tortilla española and croquettes can all be bought in advance, making up the basis for a sterling tapas spread. Bulk things out with bread and salads, and don't forget the sangria.

A sushi spread

Sushi is an excellent lunch choice and not something we enjoy often at home, yet it looks really impressive. If you're brave enough to roll your own, it's easy enough to find sushi rice and nori seaweed sheets in most supermarkets. If you'd rather keep things simple and buy your own, Waitrose has a good range of freshly made sushi, or you could order in from a local Japanese restaurant. Invest in some chopsticks and provide herbal teas or bubbles, depending on what kind of sushi party you want to throw, for an elegant afternoon with friends.

Texas-style BBQ

The summer months call for everybody's favourite pastime: the garden BBQ. Theming your BBQ amplifies the fun and will go down a storm with kids. Texas is an easy theme to begin with - try sweet and smoky marinades, toasted corn, blue cheese salads, and s'mores for dessert. A fire pit, which guests can huddle around and toast their marshmallows, would also tie in with this theme well.

Hire a professional

If you want to host at home with a fine dining experience, hiring a professional chef will relieve the pressure so you can focus on setting the scene without worrying about a cooking schedule. Chefs will also often serve the food, making it a real occasion. Opt for a tasting menu to elevate the evening further and consider drink pairings for a more considered experience.

'20s themed dinner party

The 1920s were an era of elegance and decadence, so naturally, it makes a fabulous dinner party theme. Greet guests with a martini-style cocktail or champagne in coup glasses, serve delicate finger food and - if you're feeling extra luxurious - freshly shucked oysters. Oyster Rockefeller, where oysters are baked with cream and cheese, is a good option for anyone nervous about serving raw seafood.

An '80s dinner party

Decade-themed dinner parties are great when you're struggling with what to serve guests. The '80s had many classic dishes, from prawn or crayfish cocktail and coronation chicken curry to arctic roll for dessert. If fancy dress is your thing, go one step further and encourage your guests to turn up in '80s attire.

Put some extra effort into dessert

Dessert should be an event in itself. Tiramisu is easy to master if you follow the recipe and requires minimal prep time - it will just need a few hours to set. Alternatively, a trifle is a retro choice that wins crowds over. To keep it simple, a selection of ice creams and sorbets is a delicious way to end a meal.

You could also consider serving dessert wine with the final course. "A little sip of dessert wine at the end really makes it quite special," food writer and chef Francesca McKay tells us. "Dessert wines aren't as common nowadays, but for those in the know, they're making a comeback, particularly for wine fans throwing dinner parties. If you want to invest in a good bottle, rest assured it will last - you only need a small amount compared to a standard glass of wine due to its typically rich and sweet flavour."

Non-alcoholic cocktail alternatives are a great way to enjoy your favourite tipple without the buzz. From a 0% mojito to an inventive spin on the classic espresso martini, we reveal how to make them all.

No matter the time of year, having a couple of non-alcoholic cocktail alternatives in your back pocket is very useful. Whether you're having a dinner party or looking for something special to see out the week with, these options are great for reaping all the benefits of not drinking alcohol.

We've collated this list of cocktails, ensuring that each one is easy to make with regular household ingredients - or ones that are widely available to buy online, or at your local supermarket.

Non-alcoholic cocktail ideas

Virgin Mary

A Virgin Mary cocktail is one of the classic cocktail alternatives, using similar ingredients to a Bloody Mary - but no vodka.

To make one, combine tomato and lemon juice, fill a glass with ice and pour the juices over the top. Add a dash of Worchester sauce, a teaspoon of celery salt, freshly ground black pepper, and two dashes of hot sauce.

Don't forget the all-important details to truly replicate the classic cocktail though - a celery stick, lime wedge and cherry tomato. It's like a salad in a glass.

Shirley Temple

A Shirley Temple is a sweet and refreshing spin on an Old Fashioned, traditionally made without alcohol, and originating from 1930s Hollywood.

Take a tall glass and fill it with ice, pour in ginger ale and lime juice. Grenadine goes in over the top, and you can use a maraschino cherry and an orange slice to garnish.

Ginger and orange juice

Ginger and orange juice doesn't just make a good alternative to cocktails, when served in a tall glass with a carrot stick and a slice of ginger on the edge, it's also packed full of nutrients.

As anti-inflammatory foods high in vitamin C, orange and ginger can help maintain a healthy immune system. An extract of ginger can also aid better digestion, so this is a good post-dinner cocktail alternative to have.

Cranberry fizz

A cranberry fizz is another classic cocktail in which the alcohol ingredient is removed for a similar taste. To avoid the gin, combine caster sugar with cranberries at the bottom of a glass. Pour soda water over the top, and add an orange's worth of slices. Before serving, add a couple of ice cubes.

There are two ways you can make this drink - with fresh or frozen cranberries. Frozen cranberries will give the drink a slushie-like texture.

Ice tea

Ice tea is a fresh, easy-to-make and budget-friendly cocktail alternative. It's great on a hot day but just as good in winter, when you want a reminder of warmer climates. It uses traditional teas, combined with sugar or syrups to create a unique flavour, which you can customise as you like.

Peach iced tea is the classic. You can use herbal peach tea to make it or regular tea bags and add the peach flavour. Lemon or verbena are also good bases with which to make iced tea.

Once made, to finish off your cocktail, garnish the drink with peach slices and fresh mint.

Ginger beer

Ginger beer might seem like it belongs in the non-alcoholic beer alternatives list, but we promise that if you add the right ingredients, it'll taste just like a Moscow Mule.

With your copper beaker in hand, combine ginger beer, lime juice, soda water, and a simple sugar syrup (one part sugar, one part water). The ginger beer offers the kick, while the lime juice brings a tangy aftertaste.

Mulled apple juice

In this recipe for mulled apple juice, you simply combine apple juice with a few strips of orange peel, a cinnamon stick, and cloves.

Once the apple juice is simmering on the hob, add the strips of orange peel, cinnamon, and cloves. Keep it lightly bubbling for 10 minutes or so to allow all the flavours to infuse. Then, add sugar or honey (for a more natural taste) to sweeten your cocktail alternative as needed. Leave it to cool and add ice, or drink it warm as an alternative to mulled wine.

Mint lemonade

Mint lemonade is a spin on the classic recipe. First things first, you'll need a blender. Then you add lemon juice and mint, along with a simple sugar syrup, blitzing the ingredients together until the mint is very small. Then pour your mixture into a glass, adding a couple of ice cubes.

You can also make a frozen version of this drink. To do this, combine your ingredients with ice in a blender and keep blitzing until the ice takes on a classic slushie consistency.

Virgin Piña Colada

There are so many flavoursome ingredients in a Piña Colada, you can easily go without the alcohol. Combine pineapple juice with coconut milk, fresh or from a can, with lime juice then top with ice in a tall glass. To finish the cocktail off, garnish the top with a pineapple slice and maraschino cherry. Bonus points if you add a cocktail umbrella.

If you find you're missing the rum flavour, you can replace it with a homemade syrup of brown muscovado sugar, pineapple, black peppercorns, cloves, and cinnamon.

Homemade grenadine

Grenadine is a popular syrup used in cocktails like Tequila Sunrise but it actually doesn't contain any alcohol itself. So, you can use it as a replacement in many types of mocktails - or combine it with soda or tonic and drink it on its own.

To make this pomegranate-flavoured syrup, combine pomegranate juice with granulated sugar and a squeeze of orange into water on the hob. Simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes after it reaches a boil, before turning the heat off. Once cooled, add to a decanter with a tight lid. Keep it in your fridge for up to three weeks.

Coconut water

Coconut water is perhaps one of the easiest cocktail alternatives to have. There's no preparation needed, you just need to pick up some pure coconut water from your local supermarket.

In a glass, pour your coconut water over ice, adding a slice of coconut if you have it to finish the drink off. It's light and refreshing, making for a sugar-free alternative to some of the more sugary coconut drinks you may have otherwise.

Espresso tonic

Want to ditch regular cocktails but still need the kick of an espresso martini? Look no further than an espresso and tonic - yes, really.

As the name suggests, this mixture involves combining freshly made espresso (single or double shot, that's up to you) with tonic water. Be sure to leave the espresso to cool first and add plenty of ice to the glass, garnishing your new pick-me-up with a lime or orange wedge when you're ready to drink.

Non-alcoholic Buck's fizz

If you're looking for an alcohol-free alternative to this classic Prosecco or champagne cocktail, Buck's fizz with kombucha is a winner. Take a flute or coup of kombucha - your choice of flavour - and top it with orange juice.

You'll get the fizz of the sparkling, without the alcohol.

Grapefruit juice with salt rim

A Paloma is a cocktail made with tequila and grapefruit juice. Keep the grapefruit juice, the salted rim, and garnish, and you have a non-alcoholic Paloma cocktail. Plus, without the alcohol, you can reap the benefits of grapefruit juice.

The benefits of grapefruit juice, such as aiding heart health and improving cholesterol levels, come from the fruit's rich antioxidant and beta-carotene content.

Irish cream

While Irish cream might seem like a drink reserved exclusively for the colder months, this - and the non-alcoholic varieties - are available to buy in many supermarkets year-round.

You can also make it yourself by combining double cream, evaporated milk, espresso, maple syrup, and a pinch of ground cinnamon with vanilla extract. Pour the drink over ice in a heavy-bottomed glass and serve.

Watermelon and lime mocktail

A watermelon mocktail is the perfect summer cooler - or reminder of sunnier climates during the colder months. Combine one watermelon with the juice of two limes and add in some runny honey. Over the top of the mixture, add soda water and mint leaves.

In a glass, put a handful of ice cubes and pour your drink over the top. Then garnish your beverage with a slice of watermelon balanced on the edge with a sprig of mint.

Elderflower spritz

Elderflower cordial and spritzes are some of the more traditional non-alcoholic cocktail alternatives - but they're popular for a reason. Light and refreshing, they have a similar taste to many of the classic Italian cocktails - like the Hugo spritz.

To make this 0% variety, combine elderflower cordial with a non-alcoholic Prosecco of your choice, topping it up with soda water to finish. Add a handful of ice to a wine glass and pour your cocktail over the top, topping it with a slice of lime as a garnish.

Non-alcoholic daiquiri

A non-alcoholic daiquiri cocktail, much like the traditional drink, is based on strawberries. Take two large strawberries and hull them out. Crush them together with white sugar and combine this with chilled lemon soda, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and a couple of ice cubes.

Serve your mocktail in a coup glass with a sugared rim and a strawberry slice on the side.

Cucumber cooler

A cucumber cooler is a refreshingly light alternative to a gin cocktail - and a good way to liven up your sparkling water. Combine elderflower cordial with one and a half cucumbers, smashed up until they resemble a smooth paste. Over the top of this, pour soda water, the juice of four limes and a handful of mint.

When you're ready to serve up your cucumber cooler, add plenty of ice to the glass and garnish the top with a cucumber ribbon and a lime wheel.

Non-alcoholic G&T

A gin and tonic isn't so much a cocktail as a classic spirit and mixer drink - but it's one of the easiest to turn into a non-alcoholic beverage. Combine your choice of tonic - whether that's slimline, Mediterranean, and so on - with a non-alcoholic gin of your choice.

Many of the big distilleries offer 0.0% options nowadays with the boom of no- and low-alcohol varieties in recent years.

Lemonade

Lemonade is the original cocktail alternative, with homemade and store-bought drinks offering a sour kick and plenty of flavour options - including lemon and lime, cherry, and mango.

To mirror the look of a cocktail, go for a cloudy lemonade and serve it over ice with a garnish of whatever base fruit your lemonade is. For example, a slice of lemon for a classic lemonade.

No-alcohol negroni

A no-alcohol negroni might sound impossible, given this classic cocktail is made from a combination of three spirits - but it can be done using zero-alcohol botanical alternatives. For example, non-alcoholic gin and aperitif syrups combined with orange and aromatic bitters, most of which don't have alcohol in them.

Combine these together with ice in a tumbler and shake. Then pour in a short, heavy bottom glass, and top with a slice of orange.

Fruit punch

A fruit punch is the perfect cocktail alternative to use up frozen berries and fruit in your freezer. Much like other cocktails on our list, you can add additional flavours to suit the season - or keep the recipe as is.

To make a classic non-alcoholic fruit punch, combine orange juice, pineapple juice, cranberry juice, and lime juice in a blender. Once combined, pour out into glasses and top each one with a fruit garnish of some kind, like an orange slice.

Apple fizz

Mix apple and lemon juice, add ice to the blend, and top with a dash of sparkling water. Serve in a tall glass with an apple slice and cinnamon stick as a garnish, or lower the quantity and have this cocktail in a flute or coup as an alternative to champagne.

In the summertime, add a little extra lemon for an additional kick of flavour. In the colder months, a sprinkle of nutmeg brings about a more wintery flavour.

Mango lassi

Mango lassi is a creamy yoghurt-based drink, originating in India. It's made with mango, milk, a small amount of sugar and some cardamom. It's very easy to make as well - just blend all the ingredients until silky smooth and serve up in a glass of your choice with a ground cardamom garnish or sprig of mint.

It's also traditionally made without alcohol, there's no compromise. It also doesn't have any added sugars and is full of protein, probiotics, and other vitamins.

Alcohol-free amaretto sour

A traditional amaretto sour features on most cocktail menus around the world, with its unique blend of sweet and sour. The base is almonds, so to make a non-alcoholic version of this classic cocktail, you just need to swap the amaretto with almond extract, along with a few other ingredients.

To the almond extract, add pineapple and lemon juice, egg white, and cherry syrup. When ready to serve, add a couple of ice cubes to the glass and a garnish of a pineapple chunk and a fresh cherry.

Mango cooler with mint

While mango brings about thoughts of the summer, this is a drink you can make all year round. It's light and refreshing - plus, it's packed with health benefits given there's no alcohol involved. Mango is rich in folate and vitamin A, and high in fibre, making it very good for your digestive health.

Combine mango puree with fresh mint leaves (at least 10) or mint extract (but make sure it's pure and not sweetened). Add ice, garnish with fresh mint leaves and a slice of mango, and you've got yourself a cooler.

Spicy orange cooler

With orange juice, half a teaspoon of cinnamon, a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg, and plenty of ice, you can make this refreshing wintery drink whatever the season.

Mix the orange juice together with the spices - you could even use a blender if you like to make sure it's a complete blend of the ingredients. Then add the ice over the top, before straining it out and serving in a martini glass with a star anise to finish off the presentation. Or, keep the ice and serve this cocktail alternative in a tall glass with an orange slice to garnish.

Lime and coconut slushie

After leaving your coconut milk in the freezer for a day or two, blend it up until it's completely smooth. Serve up the coconut slushie in your choice of glass - then add the lime juice.

If you add the lime juice to the coconut milk in the blender, the acid in the lime can cause the coconut milk to curdle. It's not the end of the world but it's easily avoided.

Non-alcoholic mojito

A non-alcoholic mojito is a classic spin on the traditional rum cocktail. Combine sugar, a bunch of mint, and the juice of three limes with soda water - no alcohol needed to make this tasty alternative.

To make your non-alcoholic mojito even better, add a mint sprig and a lime wedge to the top of your cocktail.

Tomato and basil cooler

If you're looking for another Bloody Mary alternative that doesn't have the same kick as the classic cocktail, this cooler could be for you. It uses tomato juice, fresh basil leaves, and plenty of ice.

Muddle the basil leaves together and add the tomato juice on top. Throw in the ice and shake. Then serve in a tall glass with a sprinkle of ginger if you fancy it.

Alcohol-free passion fruit martini

A passionfruit martini doesn't have to contain alcohol - or a shot of Prosecco on the side - to be delicious. To make this non-alcoholic cocktail alternative, combine three passion fruit halves, one juiced lemon, an egg white, sugar syrup, and a handful of ice into a shaker.

To replace the Prosecco shot on the side, try kombucha or sparkling grape juice.

Hosting isn’t just about creating delicious dishes; it’s about spending quality time with your guests. This delicious, savoury tart delivers maximum flavour with minimum time spent in the kitchen. Thanks to a handful of high-quality Tesco Finest ingredients, this straightforward dish is perfect for a light lunch or as part of an al fresco evening spread.

The beauty of this Herby tomato and Gruyère tart lies in both its simplicity and bright summer flavours. Delicious alongside a fresh, green salad and a glass of smooth red wine, this tart is the ideal sharing centrepiece for a summer meal among friends.

To achieve a perfectly golden tart, glazing the pastry with milk is imperative, as is using Tesco Finest Free Range Bluebell Araucana Eggs in the filling. These wonderful eggs come from trusted British farms where hens are free to roam. Not only does the rich flavour of their yolks meld wonderfully with the mild cream cheese, but their glorious colour really turns this straightforward tart into a truly impressive dish. We eat with our eyes first, after all.

Tesco Finest Reserve Swiss Gruyère Cheese is what gives this tart its characteristic depth of flavour, thanks to the full-bodied nuttiness of this traditional Swiss cheese. Made using only finest Swiss cow’s milk from mountain dairies, this renowned Alpine cheese has been expertly matured to create a flavoursome cheese that not only melts well but delivers a punch of robust tang.

Bejewel your golden tart with Tesco Finest Sweet Mixed Baby Tomatoes to balance all those buttery, rich flavours. Expertly grown and specially selected for their vivid colour and sweet flavour, these tomatoes burst with the juiciness of summer and add an incredible sweetness to this light, crisp tart.

Finally, once your tart has baked and cooled slightly, present it to your guests outside alongside a glass of Tesco Finest Marlborough Pinot Noir for a light wine pairing that won’t overshadow the dish. This light red wine is perfect for a summer’s day while brimming with notes of cherries and berries. The subtle spice achieved from ageing in oak barrels ensures a well-balanced wine that’s sure to impress.

Herby tomato and Gruyère tart

An easy-to-whip-up tart that makes the most of the nutty Tesco Finest Gruyère cheese and sweet baby tomatoes.

Serves: 6   |   Prep: 5 mins   |   Cook: 30 mins

• 475g Tesco Ready Rolled Puff Pastry
• 1-2 tbsp whole milk, for brushing
• 200g pack Tesco Full Fat Soft Cheese
• 2 Tesco Finest Free Range Bluebell Araucana Eggs
• 125g Tesco Finest Reserve Swiss Gruyère Cheese, grated
• 1⁄2 x 20g pack tarragon, plus a few leaves reserved to garnish
• 1⁄2 x 20g pack chives, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, grated
• 1⁄2 small red onion, finely sliced
• 250g Tesco Finest Sweet Mixed Baby Tomatoes, halved
• Tesco Finest Marlborough Pinot Noir, to serve

Method

1. Heat the oven to 200C Fan/Gas 7. Take the pastry out of the fridge 15 mins ahead. Unroll the pastry still on its paper on a baking sheet. Trim away overhanging edges.

2. Score a border 2cm from the edge, brush with milk and score the centre section a few times with a sharp knife.

3. Bake for 12 mins, until risen and golden. Use the back of a spatula/fish slice to push the centre section of pastry down, leaving the border intact.

4. Turn the oven down to 170C/Gas 5. Mix the soft cheese with the eggs, Gruyère, herbs and garlic, then season with plenty of black pepper and flaky sea salt.

5. Pour into the tart case, then scatter the onion on top, followed by the halved tomatoes. Put back in the oven and bake for 15 mins, or until the filling is set. Leave to rest for 5 mins before serving.

Here's how to make the increasingly popular Lillet Spritz, a sweeter alternative to the Aperol Spritz.

We're all over the trend of making spritzes for any and all occasions - but it's well-know that the Aperol Spritz, arguably the most popular of the spritz family, can be a bit contentious, as Aperol has a fairly acquired, bitter taste. For those who don't like the Aperol Spritz, we might suggest the Hugo Spritz - a drink similar to the Aperol Spritz but with St. Germain as the aperitif liquor, giving a slightly sweeter and more floral taste to the drink. 

Or, if you know what's what on TikTok, you may have seen the buzzy Lillet Spritz (and all of its counterparts, including the Lillet Blanc Spritz and the Lillet Rose Spritz) trending. 

What's the difference between a Lillet Spritz and an Aperol Spritz?

Where an Aperol Spritz leans a bit more on the bitter side, a Lillet Spritz is your sweeter, more crowd-pleasing alternative. While both the drinks are set over ice and only include a few ingredients, the Lillet Spritz is more fragrant, and lighter on the palate than the Aperol Spritz, as Aperol tends to be a bit of a polarizing taste for some. 

Folks have compared the Lillet Spritz to a vodka and soda - light, refreshing, and luckily, not laden with calories. 

How to Make a Lillet Spritz

First and foremost, the primary ingredient of this simple cocktail recipe is, of course, Lillet French Aperitif.

The recipe for the delicious Lillet Spritz is as follows, according to the Lillet brand:

-2.5 parts of your preferred Lillet Aperitif (Blanc for a less sweet version, Rosé for a sweeter taste)

-2.5 parts your favorite club soda (we recommend a sparkling water like Nixie Organic Seltzers if you don't prefer club soda brands)

-recommended orange slice for garnish

Making a Lillet Spritz simply could not be easier - combine the Lillet and club soda, a and then garnish with an orange slice for added citrus flavour. You can also muddle some other citrus, or even some strawberries into your drink to spruce up the flavour as well. 

For those wishing to indulge in the delicious drink while the warm weather lasts, Lillet offers a convenient Lillet Spritz Picnic Kit that includes all of the essentials you'll need to make the refreshing cocktail.

TikTok has officially called it: the Hugo Spritz is set to be *the* cocktail of summer 2023. Here's how to make the refreshing St. Germain based drink. 

There are a handful of cocktails out there that people will tell you are "it" drinks you simply must order - for example, the Aperol Spritz, which continues to reign as one of summer's most essential drinks, or the espresso martini, which garners undying support from all age demographics. 

Well, we're asking your Aperol Spritz's and espresso martinis to move over, because there's a not-so-new summer cocktail in town, and its name is the Hugo Spritz. 

Spritz's, generally, are well-loved drinks among all age demos, perhaps the most common is, of course, the Aperol Spritz - the Hugo Spritz, however, is sort of the lesser-known sister cocktail of the Aperol Spritz. 

The Hugo Spritz is a St. Germain-based cocktail, making the drink light and refreshing with the elderflower liqueur set over ice with other add-ins. It's perfect for people who maybe are averse to the taste of Aperol, and want to try something a little lighter and slightly sweeter. Although Hugos are typically meant to be served as an aperitif, this cocktail goes perfectly with any summer recipes you might be indulging in at your next dinner party or night out. 

TikToker Colette's Cocktails details the recipe to make the perfect Hugo Spritz this summer, and all you need is the following, according to the mixologist: 

• 5-6 mint leaves
• .5 oz lemon juice
• .75 oz St. Germain or elderflower liqueur of choice
• 3-4 oz prosecco
• ice

Here's how to make the light and refreshing Hugo Spritz:

1. Muddle lemon juice and mint leaves in your glass
2. Add desired amount of ice
3. Add in St. Germain
4. Fill up the rest of your glass with prosecco
5. Garnish with lemon slice and/or mint leaves

This drink, which gained popularity particularly in Northern Italy is light, refreshing, and will fit just about any palette, seeing as it's not too strong. 

Don't take our word for it though, TikTok is sounding off about just how great the delicious summer cocktail really is. 

"Yum. I adoreee a hugo spritz. On a hot summer day at brunch, the best," one person commented on Colette's TikTok. 

"Aperol spritz walked so Hugo spritz could run," another person said. 

"I've been drinking Hugo's for years and years it's my absolute summer favorite," someone else noted.

Clearly, we're not the only ones promoting this crowd-pleasing summer drink. 

Entertaining this weekend and on the lookout for some impressive Sunday lunch ideas? Whether you're hosting a family lunch or a get-together with friends, these main, side and dessert ideas are guaranteed crowd pleasers.

It's easy to get stuck in a cycle of cooking the same thing every Sunday, so we've included some interesting alternatives to what you might normally cook. From perfectly marinated meats to herb-packed stuffing and a range of both decadent and light desserts, these recipes are a mixture of low-effort, cook-ahead meals, and more involved dishes. To come up with our selection we dug deep into the woman&home archive to find recipes that we've returned to over and over again throughout the years.

We've largely focused on various forms of roasts, but if you're looking for something a little lighter check out our guide on lunch ideas for entertaining friends, followed by our easy dessert recipes.

 Sunday lunch ideas and recipes 

Mains

Slow Cooked Pork Shoulder With Plum Sauce

If you're feeding a crowd, try this melt-in-the-mouth slow-cooked shoulder of pork. Marinating the meat the day before can save you some extra time the next day while allowing the flavors to fully develop. This tender and succulent pork pairs perfectly with a sweet sauce; a homemade plum sauce is the ideal accompaniment and tastes far better than anything you could buy in the shops. 

Get the recipe here: Slow cooked pork shoulder with plum sauce.

Whole Tikka roast chicken

Curry is one of the UK's favorite dishes, but it needn't be limited to a Friday night takeaway. Why not try a spicy spin on your Sunday roast with this tikka roast chicken? Indian side dishes like sag aloo and a vibrant chutney complete make for a fragrant and flavourful take on this family favorite. 

Get the recipe here: Whole tikka roast chicken.

Roast Rib of Beef with Red Wine Gravy

What better way to honor a beautiful piece of beef than with a robust red wine gravy? A truly special gravy needs to be made with a good quality stock - it's worth investing a little to get the best results. Serve with all the usual trimmings to upgrade your classic Sunday roast. 

Get the recipe here: Roast rib of beef with red wine gravy

Asian-Glazed Gammon

This gammon is baked rather than boiled, giving it extra flavor and a crisp and golden finish. An Asian glaze adds sweet and slightly spicy flavors of the East which will keep you going back for more. 

Get the recipe here: Asian-glazed gammon.

Roast Chicken with Wild Boar Stuffing

Mix up your classic roast chicken dinner by serving it with a mouth-watering wild boar stuffing and sweet garlic gravy. Cooking the garlic in the chicken infuses your gravy with even more flavor, and you can make your stuffing while the chicken is roasting to save time.

Get the recipe here: Proper roast chicken with wild boar stuffing and garlic gravy

Roast Chicken with Rosemary and Anchovy Butter

Salty anchovies give a flavor boost to this regular roast recipe. The butter can be made using a microwave for extra ease and to free up space on your hob. Spreading this homemade butter under the skin adds moisture and flavor to the meat whilst ensuring a crispy skin. 

Get the recipe here:  Roast chicken with rosemary and anchovy butter 

Roasted Pork Loin with Baked Apple and Onion Chutney

Pork and apple is a classic combination. Making your own chutney is easy, and a great alternative to shop-bought apple sauce. The sharp chutney makes a great contrast to the crispy pork crackling, without being too sweet. 

Get the recipe here: Roasted pork loin with baked apple and onion chutney recipe.

Marinated Roast Lamb with Oregano, Garlic and Lemon

Tender and flavor-packed roast lamb makes for a perfect roast. Marinating the meat overnight in the zesty and herby blend of oregano, garlic, and lemon ensures you get an even better texture and taste to your joint of lamb. This recipe gives you a few options on cooking time so that the meat is cooked just as you like.

Get the recipe here: Our marinated roast lamb with oregano, garlic and lemon

Easy Roast Duck with Sour Cherry Chutney

Duck is a smaller bird, so can be a great choice for a Sunday roast or Christmas lunch if there are 2-4 of you. The tangy chutney complements the richness of the duck perfectly, and if there is any leftover it makes a wonderful addition to a cheddar or ham sandwich.

Get the recipe here: Easy roast duck with sour cherry chutney

Best Nut Roast

This is a mouth-watering iteration of the classic vegetarian roast. Packed with nuts and seeds and enhanced with fresh herbs and punchy Worcester sauce, vegetarians will love this centerpiece. Serve with all the trimmings for a moreish meat-free meal.

Get the recipe here: The best nut roast

Whole Baked Salmon with Fennel, Ginger and Lemon

Seafood is often disregarded when serving a Sunday roast, but it shouldn't be. Serving a whole fish not only looks impressive, it also makes sure the fish stays moist and delicious while cooking. The cooking juices, infused with lemon, ginger and fennel, can be served alongside the fish as a sauce.

Get the recipe here: Whole baked salmon with fennel, ginger and lemon   

Sides

Don't just save red cabbage for your Christmas dinner. This sweet and subtly spiced side adds a wintry twist to your Sunday roast and is also a great source of fiber and vitamin C. This can be made up to a month in advance and frozen until needed.

Get the recipe here: Braised red cabbage with cranberries

Crispy Roast Potatoes

Making perfect roast potatoes are a key component of a roast dinner and the best ones are crisp on the outside but fluffy on the inside. The trick to getting your potatoes to stay crisp is making sure the fat or oil is hot before combining with the potatoes so it isn't absorbed.

Get the recipe here: Crispy roast potatoes  

Pork and Herb Stuffing

These stuffing balls are so easy to make, and the addition of fresh sage, parsley and thyme means they are packed with flavor. They can be made ahead and frozen, only needing to be defrosted and then baked for 40 minutes before being served.

Get the recipe here: Pork and herb stuffing balls  

Roasted Parsnips and Carrots in Caramel

These sweet and roasted root vegetables are a lighter alternative to a whole serving of roast potatoes but are still full of flavor. The sweet glaze transforms ordinary vegetables into a stunning side which is a great accompaniment to roasted pork or chicken. 

Get the recipe here: Roasted parsnips and carrots in caramel.

Best Bread Sauce

This easy yet impressive condiment is the perfect partner to a roast dinner. Making your bread sauce with stock gives a fuller flavor, and the addition of crème fraîche, as well as butter, makes this sauce even richer and more luxurious.

Get the recipe here: Best bread sauce.

Pigs in Blankets

Pigs in blankets make great nibbles for a drinks party, but are also perfect when served with a Sunday roast. Adding a little maple syrup or honey just before they are finished cooking adds an extra sweet and sticky glaze to these festive favorites.

Get the recipe here: Pigs in Blankets

Desserts

Apple and Dark Fruit Crumble with Vanilla Custard

Fruit crumble is undoubtedly a warming winter favorite. The addition of almonds to the crumble mix gives an extra crunch and a smooth, nutty flavour. Best served with a rich vanilla custard or ice cream.

Get the recipe here: Apple and dark fruit crumble

Blackcurrant, Mint and Cassis Sorbet

For a light and refreshing way to round off lunch, try making your own sorbet. Making sorbet is far easier than you'd expect, with this simple recipe. An added bit of cassis makes this sorbet go down a treat but can be missed out to make the recipe more suitable for the whole family.

Get the recipe here: Blackcurrant mint and cassis sorbet.

Boozy Tiramisu Torte

Add some italian flair to your dessert with this torte inspired by the popular pick me up. Coffee and Tia Maria make this rich and decadent treat a great grown up end to a Sunday lunch. 

Get the recipe here: Boozy tiramisu torte

Millionaire's Ice Cream

You don't even need an ice cream machine to make this delicious ice cream. The three layers of salted caramel, chocolate, and biscuit-flavored ice creams are simply layers into a tin and frozen overnight before being served with a drizzle of melted chocolate for the ultimate luxurious treat. We'll admit, it looks a bit sloppy, but it tastes divine.

Get the recipe here: Millionaire's ice cream 

Low alcohol wines are ideal for anyone looking to cut back on their alcohol intake or even give up booze for good. While many non-drinkers like to stick to soft drinks only, having a lower-alcohol glass of wine is one way others have been able to keep enjoying the drink.

Thanks to mindful drinking and sober-curious movements in the last few years, there's more interest in low alcohol wine than ever before with classic brands and new initiatives being set up to offer customers their favorite tipple - without the risk of a heavy head the next day.

This means low alcohol wines have come a long way in recent years, going from being specialty produce to essential stock on the shelves of most mainstream grocery stores for anyone looking to enjoy the benefits of not drinking alcohol to the same extent, or the lowest calorie alcohol. It's great news for wine drinkers but it means the range of choice is huge. To help you find the right one, we've consulted Tim Atkin, a master of wine with over 30 years of experience in the industry, and rounded up some of the very best. 

What are low alcohol wines?

Low alcohol wines, Atkin explains, vary in alcohol level from 20% (for port) to 5.5% (for Moscato d'Asti). Most wines tend to have between 12 and 14% ABV so while this may seem relatively high still, it's lower than standard. "Levels have crept up in recent years, partly because of climate change, but also because of a prevailing taste for softer, riper wines," he says. 

You can also buy zero-alcohol wine, like Oddbird Domaine de la Prade Merlot Shiraz or Oddbird Rosé, if you don't want any alcohol at all. But if taste and a more authentic experience are what you're after, and you're just looking to try more mindful drinking approaches, opt for lower-alcohol wines as these haven't been manipulated. "Choose wines that are naturally low in alcohol as opposed to manipulated ones," suggests Atkin. 

It takes a bit of work to track down these low alcohol wines, especially ones with less than 13% ABV, but it can be done. 

Best low alcohol wines UK 

Best low alcohol wines US

Is low alcohol wine better for you?

Yes, while there's no such thing as healthy alcohol, low alcohol wines are better for you than wine with a higher ABV. Not only is wine with a lower alcohol percentage one of the best alternatives to alcohol at full strength, since it still tastes the same as full-percentage wine, research from Institut de Recerca Hospital in Barcelona found that those who drank limited to moderate amounts of alcohol were between 25 and 30% less likely to develop cardiovascular disease and other adverse health conditions, including type 2 diabetes. 

Alcohol is also one of the biggest contributors to inflammation, says Pauline Cox, functional nutritionist and health consultant. "Ethanol is the end-product of fermenting carbohydrates," she explains, and wine tends to contain more ethanol than other types of alcohol due to the natural sugar in grapes. "1.5oz shot of an 80-proof hard spirit will give you 120 calories for example. 12 of those calories are metabolized within the stomach and intestine and a further 10% is metabolized in the brain, which causes the intoxicating effects. This means approximately 96 calories make it to the liver."

Ethanol then causes an inflammatory reaction in your liver, she says, and it's one of the reasons why many people are considering what happens when you give up alcohol for good. "The body quickly uses up its stores of the power antioxidant glutathione to combat damage. Ethanol does not get metabolized into glycogen and instead goes straight into the mitochondria with any excess being turned straight into fat and stored in the liver."

When excessive amounts of fat are made and the liver becomes more fatty, the fat begins to deposit in the skeletal muscle, in and around the organs. "Alcholic fatty liver progresses," Cox explains, "And that's just from 1.5oz of alcohol. Imagine the effects of mixers and juices on a regular basis!"

If you're on the hunt for retro drinks ideas from the 1970s and 1980s, Cherry B’s, sweet Mateus wine and garishly colorful cocktails might spring to mind. But, this era also saw the birth of some iconic drinks, many of which are still served to this day.

Just like the most iconic retro foods of each era, some of these should remain firmly in the past but others deserve a worthy place at the table at any garden parties you're throwing this summer (or beyond). 

With consultation from mixologists and wine and spirits experts, we break down the most iconic drinks of the 70s and 80s.

1970s spirits

It's not an era many bartenders remember with fondness, but many of the spirits we enjoy today rose to popularity in the 1970s. "Lots of the products we still enjoy today were going strong during this period – but often in different style serves. Some will hopefully come back into fashion – vermouth on ice, scotch, and soda – but hopefully the misogyny that usually accompanied these adverts stay in the past," explains world-renowned bartender and bar owner, Ryan Chetiyawardana (aka Mr Lyan),

"Some of the products that have lost some footing include Dubonnet (the Queen's favorite tipple), Sack (a medium dry Sherry) and Drambuie."

Advocaat

Everyone seemed to have a bottle of this rich, creamy Dutch drink at home that would get dusted off during the festive period. Mix with lemonade to make a Snowball and transport yourself to Christmas in the ‘70s. 

Advocaat can perhaps domestic goddess Nigella Lawson for their sweet egg liqueur making a comeback. After Nigella praised this retro tipple back in 2007, sales of the bright yellow bottle have increased year on year.

World-renowned bartender and bar owner, Ryan Chetiyawardana (aka Mr Lyan), sings the praises of the niche liquor but suggests mixing up the serve in 2022.

Birch Snowball Recipe

Ingredients

• 25ml Advocaat
• 15ml homemade lime cordial (or failing that, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice mixed with 2 teaspoons of sugar)
• 25ml Fierfield Birch Whiskey 
• 100ml Fever Tree Lemonade

Method:

Mix the Advocaat, cordial and Fierfield in a highball glass and stir well, then add lots of ice, and top with the chilled lemonade. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry. While Ryan's recipe calls on Fierfield (a botanical irish whiskey) you can try to substitute it with a comparable blend

Vodka

One of the lowest calorie alcohols, vodka became hugely popular in the 1970s and was used as the base of many popular 70's cocktails, like.  Steve The Barman, bartender for 25+ years and host of the Drinkstuff's YouTube channel recommends mixing a Harvey Wallbanger. "This fun cocktail, made with vodka, Galliano, and orange juice, was popular in the 1970s and is making a comeback today," he says. For something more contemporary try our Pomegranate Vodka Recipe.

1970s wines

Wine-drinking habits changed in the 1970s as wines from the continent became more accessible but the wines that were considered the height of sophistication in 1970 aren't necessarily the ones that spring to mind today.

Sarah Knowles MW, one of the expert buyers for The Wine Society explains that from the 70s, "Wine at home for the British middle classes was becoming more popular since the UK licensing laws changed in the late 60’s to allow supermarkets to stock and sell wine ranges.  Brands such as Mateus Rosé, Black Tower and Harveys Bristol Cream led the way in appealing to a new, female-led, market sector successfully seeing wine sales in the UK grow at a great rate. 

"With Britain joining the EEC in 1973 and an increase in European summer holidays for the middle class, the 70’s really allowed the consumer to get to grips with popular European styles of wine."

Some of the brands of the time "have been victims of their own success," admits Sarah, but others have stood the test of time. Here are the top brands of the time, as well as the ones worth serving in 2022.

Mateus Rosé

This iconic Portuguese wine was more famous for its unique flask-shaped bottle than the contents. But it really made an impact and will forever be epitomised in Elton John’s 1973 song Social Disease. Elton sings “I get juiced on Mateus and just hang loose.”

For a classier update in 2022, Sarah recommends a different Portuguese rose. "Portugal are still a leader in rosé production, although the Quinta do Portugal Rose (Douro, 2021) is a little drier and lighter in colour than the much loved oval shaped 70’s equivalent." 

Lambrusco

Lambrusco is a frizzante (lightly sparkling) red wine from the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy. This was the bottle one would take to a dinner party if you didn’t know the hosts well, or if you were on a tight budget. Lambrusco has undergone a renaissance and is definitely the comeback queen of sparkling red wines. Serve chilled while snacking on some delicious italian dishes.

Babycham

Coined “The happiest drink in the world”, this light sparkling perry gained popularity in the ‘70s - perhaps because it was the first ever alcoholic beverage to be advertised on British commercial television. Seen as the original party drink, you couldn’t go to a soiree without seeing a bottle (or four…) floating around.

There isn't really a 'classy' alternative to this sparkling perry but it's a must if you're throwing a kitsch throwback party. Otherwise, stock up on the best champagne and prosecco deals and source some of the original deer-emblazoned Babycham glasses to serve them in. 

1970s cocktails

"Cocktail culture back in the 1970’s and 80’s lent itself extremely well to the emerging trends in music with the new wave of funk and soul from the 60’s that transitioned into disco," explains Tessa Hughes, heads of Global Customer Experience at NIO Cocktails.

“Cocktails being consumed during these formative years were designed to be enjoyed on, or next to the dance floor. The most popular recipes of that time tended to be slightly sweeter or creamier, mixing a wide range of juices with soda, and served as long drinks. Presumably, serving drinks in this way helped to reduce the amount of time one needed to spend queuing at the bar, giving disco dwellers more time to absorb moments with friends on the dancefloor."

Here are some of the best.

White Russian

This rich, creamy drink made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream is served over ice in an old fashioned tumbler. It was all the rage in the 70s. Palates have slightly changed since then, and we now tend to opt for lighter cocktails, but you can still find it on many drinks menus - often served with a half serving of milk and cream. As coffee-infused alcohol tops the list of coffee trends for 2022, this classic shows no signs of going anywhere.

Harvey Wallbanger

Sometimes simple is best, and what’s more simple than a Harvey Wallbanger cocktail? Add vodka to orange juice and top with a floating layer of Galliano vanilla liqueur (created by stirring the drink and delicately pouring the Galliano over the back of a spoon).

Aperol Spritz

You may think that the Aperol Spritz is a recent creation, but Aperol came over from Italy in the ‘70s, and with it, the Aperol Spritz. A 3-2-1 mix of Prosecco, Aperol and soda water was the drink to accompany the new Italian dishes that were gaining popularity in the UK and US.

Now the drink is more popular than ever - the giant balloon glasses filled with effervescing bright orange liquid has become synonymous with al fresco drinking on a hot summer's day.  Wrap a bottle of Aperol, soda and quality prosecco for a thoughtful prosecco gift.

1980s spirits

Cocktails were bright, sweet and in your face in the 1980s - in part thanks to the explosion of spirit mega brands at the time, meaning there were more options available.

"The 1980’s saw the birth of the modern spirit mega-brands with the rise of Baileys (created in 1974) and spirits giant Diageo acquiring and relaunching traditional brands like Smirnoff to a new market," explains Sarah. "Absolut vodka was in ascendancy and brands like Malibu and Archers gaining traction. Cocktails were sweet, sometimes frozen, preferably layered and often blue! A Woo Woo the height of sophistication, Bucks Fizz a go-to and Sex on the Beach much more than a suggestion..."

Vermouth

Italian vermouths were one of the nation's favorite tipples and in the 1980s, two brands monopolized the market: Cinzano and Martini.

"Fashion always plays a big role in what we drink in bars. As we all know, fashion will come and go and usually makes a reappearance every so often. Pop culture helped to promote the idea that Vermouth was a ‘cool’ and ‘elegant’ product to have in your drinks cabinet. From advertisements on billboards, art-deco posters to movies and many more marketing aspects," explains Murray Anderson, brand ambassador at CUCIELO .

Vermouth hasn’t fallen out of fashion, in fact, far from it. More premium vermouth brands have made their way behind the bar and are still staples in many cocktails. Vermouth can be served with soda water or lemonade as a refreshing spritzer, shaken or stirred with gin in a Dry Martini, or mixed with gin and Campari for a classic negroni; a cocktail that has seen a huge resurgence in recent years.

"There’s a drink renaissance going on. Italian aperitivo has arrived for a new generation, bringing sunset sipping mainstream. Vermouth is back in vogue and it’s fast becoming 2022’s most sophisticated serve. And we don’t just mean as a cocktail supporting act (although of course, it does taste fabulous in Negronis, Manhattans and Martinis). Vermouth is now becoming the star, served in a spritz or neat, over ice, with a slice of citrus," adds Murray.

Campari

This alcoholic liqueur has stood the test of time and is still widely available and enjoyed today. It was a hugely popular apéritif in the ‘70s and ‘80s, served over ice. It has a distinct taste of herbs and fruit and can also be served with soda water or citrus juice, as well as a number of cocktails we still enjoy today. Campari can also be used in place of Aperol when making an Aperol Spritz to create a more bitter-tasting drink.

Blue Curaçao

Whether or not this blue, sickly elixir can strictly be called a spirit is up for debate. But it was ubiquitous in the 1980s and seemingly added to every clear spirit-based cocktail. The bright blue spirit takes its name from the Dutch island of Curaçao, where its base ingredient - the bitter orange laraha - is grown. For any avoidance of doubt, though, its distinctive blue color is purely synthetic. 

If you're throwing a kitsch party, ordering in a bottle of this is a must, even if just for aesthetic purposes. This is also a handy ingredient to have in your arsenal when you're creating the best Halloween cocktails.

1980s wines

"The 80’s saw a shift as the 'new world' got in on the action, and as women overtook men as the dominant buyer of wine by volume in the UK, which is still the case to this day," explains Sarah. Brands like Sutter Home White Zinfandel, Montana Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Jacobs Creek Shiraz Cabernet were popular and offered great value with expressive fruit profiles and plenty of oak or sugar.  However, European wines also continued to do well." 

"The popularisation and democratization of wine drinking across the UK was reflected in  grape varieties rather than regions becoming more visible and wine drinking becoming much more common in popular TV shows from Coronation Street’s Deirdre Barlow’s glass of red to Jilly Goolden arriving on our screens in BBC’s Food and Drink in 1982 demystifying wine regularly to a viewing audience of 8 million."

Blue Nun

You can’t think of a dinner party in the ’80s without conjuring up images of Blue Nun on the table. It was the height of sophistication – or so we thought - and all down to some clever marketing. Blue Nun was advertised as a wine that could be enjoyed throughout the entire meal, therefore taking the pressure off of thinking about wine pairings. This extremely sweet German wine, however, fell out of favor as time went passed and palates become more refined. It became the butt of the joke and was regularly mocked for very the reason it was once so popular. If you don't relish the thought of serving this up at your next dinner party, instead Sarah recommends The Society's Saar Riseling 2019 - an off-dry and lower alcohol German Riesling.

Bulls Blood (Bikavér)

This Hungarian ‘bottom shelf’ red wine is another that didn’t have the best reputation in the end, and Hungarian wine makers are working hard to change this. Bikavér (from bika meaning bull and vér meaning blood), similarly to Lambrusco was lambasted for low quality, mass-produced exports making their way into the UK. High-quality producers in Hungary are creating some fantastic wines, but some are still hesitant to advertise their blends as Bikavér, as is still has a negative connotation.

1980s cocktails

Cocktails from the 80s sometimes get a bad rep, owing to our penchant for strong colors and stiff measures at the time - but a lot of the cocktails created around that time still exist to this day. 

"Through the 1980s, the creams and liqueurs of the 70s saw some decline in popularity, with base spirits such as vodka starting to see more popularity instead. Theatre was a large part of trendy cocktails at the time, through a combination of colors, layering of colors, or ‘pour the bar in’ style strong drinks," explains Sonia Elia, Brand Ambassador and Mixologist at Franklin & Sons. 

Negroni

Most brightly colored cocktails from this era came from artificial colors and saccharin syrups like grenadine or blue curaçao. The Negroni however was one that gained its vivid color from the alcohol alone. Gin, Campari and Vermouth Rosso all stirred together and served on the rocks.

It was some time before this bitter cocktail was embraced, as sweeter cocktails were favored back then. Now considered a classic and more popular than ever before - you’ll be hard pressed to find a decent cocktail menu without one.

Amaretto Sour

Amaretto, a sweet almond liqueur was the perfect liqueur for the Italians to export. Sweet enough to be palatable by people who don't like bitter favorites, Amaretto ticked all of the boxes. Shake two measures with with one measure of lemon juice and sugar syrup together with 1 tbsp egg white for the perfect silky finish. Garnsh with a maraschino cherry.

Piña colada

“Rum-based cocktails, such as the summer classic, Pina Colada also entered cocktail culture during the ’70s and ’80s, and it certainly makes sense when taking the disco era into consideration. Rum has a true party soul and a strong character- when you think of the spirit you’re immediately transported to sunny beaches, parties, and tiki music," says Tessa.

While the 70s were all about creamy cocktails, they evolved to include more of a kick in the 80s. Enter, the Pina Colada. Unlike some of these popular cocktails at the time, the Pina Colada has endured and is a staple holiday cocktail. If you're hosting an 80s party, serving them is a must, but for a sophisticated update on the party classic, try  Franklin & Sons' Sparkling Colada Recipe recipe which brings together the iconic pineapple and coconut flavors in a lighter serve.

Ingredients

• 40ml Koko Kanu
• 10ml Lime Juice
• 100ml Franklin & Sons Pineapple & Almond Soda (or an alternative pineapple soda)

Method:

Pour all the ingredients into a highball glass (excluding the soda). Add ice to the glass, then Pineapple & Almond Soda, and gently stir to mix and garnish with a slice of pineapple.

Margarita

The more sophisticated cousin of the tequila sunrise that was big in the 70s (tequila, orange juice, and triple sec), the Margarita is a classic cocktail that was still going strong in the 80s.

It's made of tequila, orange liqueur, and lime juice. For an authentic effect, the rim of the glass should be dipped in salt. Head to our easy Margarita recipe for instructions. 

Our favourite easy dessert recipes are those that are sure to impress guests but are also deceptively simple to make at home with just a few ingredients and not much time to spare.

Many of these simple dessert ideas require no baking, and most of the recipes are make-ahead desserts, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of your guests when you're entertaining.

There are plenty of easy chocolate dessert ideas in the list, including warm brownies that you can serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, as well as fruit filled desserts with strawberries, cherries and other seasonal berries that make wonderful pudding ideas when served in the summer.

This recipe collection is all about cheating it, but with excellent results. So whether you're looking for dinner party desserts that will impress even the most discerning of guests, or you need lunch ideas for entertaining friends, there will be a quick and easy dessert idea below for you.

29 easy dessert recipes to make at home 

Tropical cheesecake pots

Was there ever a simpler or more tasty tropical dessert? Granted the pineapple crisps are a little on the fiddly side, but even without them, these cheesecake pots are still pretty splendid. To add a tropical flavour to the cheesecake mix we have used coconut milk. As well as piling them high with mango. To make them even more simple these yummy cheesecake pots don’t require baking. Instead we have added a touch of gelatine to set the mix. 

Get the recipe: Tropical cheesecake pots

Cherry galette

This delectable French classic takes just 20 minutes to prepare and is super easy. A galette is similar to a pie, as it’s made of pastry and fruit. However, it’s easier to make because you just fold the pastry edges directly over the fruit. So there is no need to mess around with lining a pastry case. Removing the cherry stones can be a laborious task, so it’s worth investing in a cherry pitter to save time. The British cherry season is short, just June to July. This galette is a fantastic way to utilise this wonderful fruit while they're at their best. 

Get the recipe: Cherry galette

Cherry ice cream

This simple cheats cherry ice cream doesn’t require an ice cream maker. It’s a bung it in a blender and whiz it together jobbie. To make it even easier we used frozen cherries this time, so you don’t have to pit them. The homemade cones are an optional extra, but if you’re in a rush shop brought ones are great too. Or if you’re like us you might resort to eating this delicious ice cream directly from the tub! Yes, it really is that good. 

Get the recipe: Cherry ice cream

Kaiserschmarrn

Kaiserschmarrn is essentially a pancake gone wrong. It may not be the most attractive looking dessert out there, but trust us, it tastes utterly amazing. We love to serve it with apple sauce or berry compote as well as some fresh berries for good measure. As puddings go kaiserschmarrn is actually quite filling, so perfect for a winters day when you fancy a comforting warming treat. It is also a great dish to serve at brunch. 

Get the recipe: Kaiserschmarrn

Rhubarb galette

If you are looking for a quick-to-make and gluten-free dessert then look no further. This vibrant bake is a real crowd-pleaser. Gluten-free puff pastry is now readily available at most supermarkets. Although obviously this galette can be made with regular puff pastry too for those without specific dietary restrictions. 

Get the recipe: Rhubarb Galette

Chardonnay poached apples with crunchy granola

The ideal dessert for the Chardonnay lover. Poached fruit is a great dinner party pud. It’s classic and classy, and the perfect way to finish a rich meal. In this recipe, Senior Food Writer Jessica Ransom has paired sweet pears with a dry oaky Chardonnay. Jessica explains, “choosing an oaked Chardonnay intensifies the buttery notes in this wholesome dessert”. To make this pudding even faster to prepare, swap the lovely homemade granola crumb for a shop bought variety. 

Get the recipe: Chardonnay poached apples with crunchy granola

Strawberry Cheesecake with strawberry sauce

The Wimbledon classic of strawberries and cream is reimagined in this gorgeous strawberry cheesecake. It’s simple to make and doesn’t require baking. It’s a foolproof recipe that works every time. Follow the link below to find the recipe and to watch a video to guide you through the steps. 

Get the recipe: Strawberry Cheesecake with Homemade Strawberry Sauce

Low-Fat Lemon Posset

We've taken this smooth lemon dessert and made it lighter by using half-fat crème fraîche. We don't think anyone will notice! This easy dessert recipe takes just a few minutes - put it together and leave in the fridge a few hours before your guests arrive. You'll have much more time to enjoy the evening if you know the sweet course is already taken care of. 

Get the recipe: Low-Fat Lemon Posset

Easy Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Who wouldn't want a dessert recipe that tastes great and is good for you? Whip up this easy mousse in no time for a super tasty dessert that's also really healthy - it's dairy free and sugar free, so you can enjoy it guilt free! Make it ahead and keep it chilled in the fridge until you're ready to enjoy it. 

Get the recipe: Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Ice Cream Waffle Sandwiches

Everyone loved ice cream sandwiches as kids, so why not make your own and customise it with your preferred ice cream and nuts? Our is one that you'll be making time and time again on those sunny days. This easy recipe only takes fifteen minutes and feels like a real treat. 

Get the recipe: Ice Cream Waffle Sandwiches

Strawberry Fizz

We love this strawberry fizz recipe - it requires so little hassle and time that guests won't even realise you've left the table to throw it together. This is a really sophisticated and classy grown-up dessert that'll really add a touch of style to your dinner party. Plus, it looks so special in the individual glasses that everyone will be really impressed. 

Get the recipe: Strawberry Fizz

Fool-Proof Chocolate Fondant

Who doesn't love a good indulgent chocolate pudding? Saucy chocolate pudding is easier than you think to make, but with rich, oozing results that will impress your guests. So step away from anything shop bought and make you're own, as this tasty treat is ready in just 30 minutes. 

Get the recipe: Chocolate fondant

Instant Frozen Berry Sorbet

Who doesn't love a light refreshing dessert that's full of berries? You'd be surprised how easy this frozen berry sorbet is to make and it's ideal for when your sweet tooth starts acting up or as a quick pud for those unexpected guests. Plus, being a sorbet it's super healthy too - so it's a win win! 

Get the recipe: Instant Frozen Berry Sorbet

Peanut Butter Crunch Cups

These peanut butter crunch cups quickly become a favourite as they combine everyone's favourite flavours, peanuts and chocolate. They're really quick to make but look impressive, so any visitors will love them too. Enjoy them as a treat to appease your sweet tooth! 

Get the recipe: Peanut Butter Crunch Cups

DIY Raspberry Eton Mess

If friends have unexpectedly shown up, why don't you treat them to this super simple DIY raspberry Eton mess. It's sure to be a hit and is the perfect dessert, especially on a warm day! This recipe is really quick to whip up and can help use up any leftover berries you've got sat in the fridge - and it tastes delicious! 

Get the recipe: DIY Raspberry Eton Mess

Blackberry Fool with Homemade Shortbread

Whether you go the whole hog and make the shortbread or not, this blackberry fool with homemade shortbread recipe is a delicious dessert your friends and family will love. This lovely recipe only uses a few ingredients and is really quick to prep, so make it in advance for your next dinner party and you'll have more time to enjoy with your guests. 

Get the recipe: Blackberry Fool with Homemade Shortbread

Super Dark Venezuelan Truffles

For a dessert that's really easy to make but feels really indulgent, give these luxurious truffles a go. This delicious, rich super dark Venezuelan truffles recipe is a doddle to make - not that your guests would ever guess that! The recipe makes 40 truffles, so you could even box them up and give them as gift. 

Get the recipe: Super Dark Venezuelan Truffles

Strawberry Peach Plate Trifle

All the yumminess of a trifle in a fraction of the time, this peach and strawberry plate trifle recipe is really quick to through together and looks gorgeous to boot! Most of the ingredients you'll already have in your cupboards and it's all put together in one plate - so that means less washing up! Try it if you're in a rush or have last minute guests and you'll be pleasantly surprised.

 Get the recipe: Strawberry Peach Plate Trifle

Dairy Free Mango and Passion Fruit Sundae

This easy sundae recipe is great year-round for a fruity and tasty dessert and great for people with dairy intolerance as it's completely dairy free. A great way to use up any leftover fruit you've got in the fridge, this sundae recipe is really quick to throw together and will feed a crowd with ease. 

Get the recipe: Dairy Free Mango and Passion Fruit Sundae

Strawberry and Chocolate Pavlova Meringue

This strawberry and chocolate pavlova meringue looks stunning and makes a great dessert for when you've got guests coming round last-minute. Perfect for the summer when strawberries are in season, it's a fresh but sweet dessert that the whole family will just love.

Get the recipe: Strawberry and Chocolate Pavlova Meringue

No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream

Easy dessert recipes with strawberries don't get simpler than this no churn summer ice cream which takes less than 20 minutes to prep. A simple, make-ahead dessert, this pudding is perfect for anyone looking for a no bake dessert to make at home for a summer soiree. 

Get the recipe: No Churn Strawberry Ice Cream

Cherry and plum brioche jam pudding

Easy dessert recipes don't get tastier than this summer twist on a classic bread and butter pudding. A really lovely, fruity dessert, the oven does all the work for you when you make this pudding and as it's ready in just two, simple steps, you can spend more time with your guests and less time cooking. 

Get the recipe: Cherry and plum brioche jam pudding

Sticky toffee ice cream sundae

What's more satisfying than a big glass of sundae dessert? This mocha and salted caramel sundae is the ultimate indulgence! Build it as big or small as you choose and enjoy - it's a real treat! 

Get the recipe: Sticky toffee ice cream sundae

Berry Iced Yogurt

A quick and easy summer dessert, this iced berries pudding is both gluten and dairy-free, meaning it's a great dessert recipe to make at home if you're hosting guests with dietary requirements. It's a really easy one to throw together last minute with whatever fruit you've got in the fridge or freezer and it's also a great dessert to make ahead - with no baking involved either! 

Get the recipe: Berry Iced Yogurt

Apricot and Vanilla Tartlets

Super easy and really quick, this apricot and vanilla tartlets recipe makes the perfect dessert for when you're entertaining friends - even at short notice! You'll probably already have a tin of apricots in the cupboard and since this recipe served six, it's a really cost effective way to feed a crowd. 

Get the recipe: Apricot and Vanilla Tartlets

Raspberry Meringue Trifles

The taste of a classic Eton Mess, but with a hint of booze - this raspberry meringue trifles recipe is the perfect simple summer dessert. This recipe served up to eight people so it's a great one to try for a summer dinner party for a fancy finishing dish. 

Get the recipe: Raspberry Meringue Trifles

Tropical Fruit Salad

Make fruit salad more exotic with tropical flavours in this fruit salad with papaya and a squeeze of lime. It's a great way to use up any fruit you've got left over and give it an extra twist, it only needs a few ingredients and you can make this ahead for easy hosting.

Get the recipe: Tropical Fruit Salad

Chocolate Macadamia Brownies

Truly delicious (especially served warm), we love this easy brownie recipe. A treat for anyone with a sweet tooth, this easy chocolate dessert can be made ahead and warmed up before serving, or serve them freshly baked with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Get the recipe: Chocolate Macadamia Brownies

Fruit Bread and Butter Pudding with Apricot

Fresh apricots add a beautiful, summery sharpness to this fruit bread and butter pudding with apricot recipe. It's super quick to make and is a real treat that will remind you of your mum's cooking - try it this week for a quick sweet treat. 

Get the recipe: Fruit Bread and Butter Pudding with Apricot

These dinner party desserts make for the perfect final course for any meal and we've got a range of simple dessert ideas to suit all seasons and guest tastes. So whether you're looking for light desserts to serve after a heavy meal or dinner party desserts you can make-ahead, there's a recipe for you below.

If you’re throwing a dinner party this weekend and want a show stopping pudding that will be remembered fondly by your guests, look no further than this delicious collection of dessert recipes to get you on the right track.

From easy fruit desserts to elegant tortes, chocolate puddings and individual desserts that are simple to serve, these dinner party desserts are sure to impress.

18 impressive dinner party desserts and pudding ideas

1. Marsala and Mascarpone Syllabub

A syllabub is a real English classic when it comes to dinner party desserts and this recipe with a marsala twist is one of our favourites. The pudding can be made in a few simple steps and will also keep overnight, meaning you can make it the night before and pop in the fridge to chill before it's ready to serve. 

Get the recipe: Marsala and Mascarpone Syllabub

2. Banoffee Pie

A classic dessert recipe that will instantly take you back to your childhood - your guests will just love this delicious but super easy dessert recipe. Ready in just an hour and big enough to serve eight - you can prep this ahead and serve a big crowd. We made this in a high-sided cake tin for a deep-pan filling finish, but you can also make it in a traditional flan tin for a thinner base.  

Get the recipe: Banoffee Pie

3. Chocolate Florentine Torte

A chocolate torte is a winner for any dinner party you might be throwing, and this Florentine version is extra impressive. Easily serving 10 people, it's a great pudding to bring out at larger gatherings and special celebrations.   

Get the recipe: Chocolate Florentine Torte 

4. Bourbon Glazed Doughnut

James Martin's glazed doughnut and homemade malted milk ice cream takes a bit of extra effort but is well worth the results for a perfectly spongy doughnut. For a dessert that feels really different from the norm, give this special sweet treat a try.

Get the recipe: Bourbon Glazed Doughnut

5. Lemon and Prosecco Sorbet

With lemon and elderflower this pudding offers a summery lightness that will help cleanse the pallet after a heavy meal and it also smells delicious. Plus a hint of prosecco offers a boozy element to this dessert which we love. Try it next time you're entertaining and you'll not be disappointed.

Get the recipe: Lemon and Prosecco Sorbet

6. Vanilla Panna Cotta

This vanilla panna cotta is best made a day in advance so it has time to set before you add the final decorations and serve it. Making it the night before your dinner party means more time chatting to friends and less time in the kitchen on the evening of your dinner. Win win!

Get the recipe: Vanilla Panna Cotta

7. Lemon, Raspberry and Thyme Tart

For a simple yet delicious pudding for your next dinner party, you can't go wrong with a classic lemon tart with a crystallised thyme twist. Sweet, sharp and ready in just an hour and a half, this is a real treat of a dessert option. 

Get the recipe: Lemon, Raspberry and Thyme Tart 

8. Summer Berry Pavlova Recipe

For a bright berry dessert that will make the perfect pink pud, give this summer berry pavlova a go. It’s an easy meringue based dessert that will please all your guests, whether it’s a summer barbecue or posh dinner party.

Get the recipe: Summer Berry Pavlova

9. Double Decker Tart

If you love the classic chocolate bar, you'll just love this Double Decker inspired tart. A reinvention of the delicious chocolate treat that's much more grown up and fabulous - it takes a bit of effort, but it's totally worth it. Everyone loves chocolate, so using it in your dinner party dessert recipe is a great way to ensure satisfied guests! 

Get the recipe: Double Decker Tart

10. Salted Caramel Roulade

Salted caramel flavoured desserts are so popular at the moment, and this delicious roulade is one to add to your favourite dinner party recipe list. Ready in just over an hour, this easy dessert serves 12 - so it's great to fill everyone up. 

Get the recipe: Salted Caramel Roulade

11. Eton mess tart

For a real summer showstopper that will look incredible at the centre of your dinner table, this Eton mess tart is a real winner when strawberries are in season. Decorate with the fruit, meringues and mint leaves for a dinner party dessert that tastes as good as it looks.

Get the recipe: Eton mess tart

12. Mary Berry's Pineapple and Ginger Pavlova

You can't go wrong with a classic pavlova when you've got people coming over. Crunchy and full of sweet flavours, Mary Berry's version is a great option to try next time you're entertaining. Ready in just over an hour, you won't be wasting valuable time in the kitchen either. 

Get the recipe: Mary Berry's Pineapple and Ginger Pavlova

13. Avocado Chocolate Mousse

For a delicious dessert that is super light and ready in just five minutes, try this avocado chocolate mousse dish. Because it's so speedy it's great to whip up if you're entertaining at the last minute. This recipe is from Deliciously Ella too, so you know it's going to be good.

Get the recipe: Avocado Chocolate Mousse

14. DIY Raspberry Eton Mess

For something a little more fun for your next dinner party, why not let your guests put together their own dessert? This fun pud is ready in just five minutes, and part of the fun is that your guests put their dessert together themselves - just serve up all the elements to the middle of the table and let them tuck in.

Get the recipe: DIY Raspberry Eton Mess

15. Ginger treacle rye cocoa tart

If you've got a chocolate lover or two coming round for tea, why not treat them to this deliciously rich pud? This striking ginger treacle and cocoa tart looks great and tastes even better - but be warned, it's very rich, so one slice goes a long way!

Get the recipe: Ginger treacle rye cocoa tart

16. Blackberry Fool

With homemade sweet and crunchy shortbread and a sharp but smooth fool - this blackberry recipe is the perfect combination of tastes and textures that work so well for a dinner party. Whether you've got blackberries to use up or just want to make the most of blackberries while they're in season, give this wonderful dessert a go when you're next entertaining. 

Get the recipe: Blackberry Fool

17. Forest Fruits Parfait

A great wintry dessert option for your next dinner party, forest fruits are full of vitamin C and just taste great. Slicing it up and serving the finished parfait to your guests individually makes for a really special treat too. 

Get the recipe: Forest Fruits Parfait

18. Drunken Bunny Lemon and Fruit Trifle

A classic English dessert makes for the perfect pudding course at a dinner party because it is full of rich and sweet flavours that your guests will just love. We love the fresh fruit twist on this trifle that doubles as a stunning finishing touch. 

Get the recipe: Drunken Bunny Lemon and Fruit Trifle

Expecting friends this weekend and unsure what to cook? We've got a variety of superb lunch ideas for entertaining friends for you to try, and while these recipes will leave guests really impressed, they won't take anywhere near as long as you'd expect to cook.

Instead of getting out all your best cook books this weekend, scroll through our recipe ideas below instead; from starters, to mains and then desserts. Whether you want to cook a vegetarian, meat or fish dish this weekend for your friends and family we've got the menu sorted so that you can focus on the quality time spent with loved ones instead.

See our expert guide for more dinner party desserts, or we also have a guide with even more vegetarian dinner party recipes should you need more inspiration.

Lunch ideas for entertaining friends

Starters

We love the colours in this grilled goats' cheese and beetroot salad,. A real show stopper of a starter when you're entertaining, you can't beat starting a menu with a lovely salad. 

Get the recipe for goats' cheese and beetroot salad.

Kick things up a notch when entertaining, starting with these seared scallops with chorizo. They look divine plated up, but are really minimal hassle to make.

Get the recipe for seared scallops with chorizo.

There's nothing better to get people talking and get into the swing of things than a shared board of beetroot and gin cured salmon to start. With a really stunning, vibrant colour to it, it makes the perfect way to start a lunch or supper.

Get the recipe for beetroot and gin cured salmon.

Mains

Try this venison casserole with button mushrooms (pictured). It makes a pleasant change to a classic beef casserole and because it's leaner, venison makes for a slightly healthier meat option. When it's been cooked for a few hours it not only infuses with everything it's been cooking with but it becomes melt-in-the-mouth perfect too. We love how tender the venison becomes in this casserole and it goes great with the button mushrooms.

Get the recipe for venison casserole with mushrooms.

A delicious cheesy asparagus tart with brie and black olive dressing, this recipe is perfect for spring and summer entertaining. You can use a variety of cheeses if you don't like brie. The best to choose are soft cheeses like Camembert, as these will melt, whereas if you opt for halloumi this will remain unmelted, but will brown.

Get the recipe for Asparagus Tart with Brie and Black Olive Dressing.

Just as tasty as the traditional dish, this lighter moussaka recipe contains slightly less fat than the original because it uses Greek Yoghurt for part of the recipe. We continued the light theme in this dish by charring the aubergines in a non-stick pan. Char-grilling the aubergines gives this moussaka dish a lovely smokey flavour and cuts down on the oil used in cooking too. Serve with a Greek salad and warm pitta bread.

Get the recipe for Lighter Moussaka.

Nothing brings people together like a roast does, so give this Korean Lamb Roast recipe a go. Served with new potatoes and green beans, it puts a bit of a twist on the classic roast recipe, and it's a real delight. Roasts are always a big hit when you're entertaining and they're especially easy to make, as once you've done all the prep you don't have to worry about them too much once your meat is in the oven. Serve with a sparkling rosé or your best Crémant.

Get the recipe for Korean Lamb Roast.

The flavours in this slow cooked beef with mushrooms and red wine come together so elegantly thanks to the fact that it's slow cooked. If you give it the time it deserves this dish will really impress family and friends. Dishes made in a slow or multi cooker are a great choice if you're looking for lunch ideas for entertaining friends, as they're low-hassle and while they're cooking you can either get on with the starter or dessert.

Get the recipe for slow cooked beef with mushrooms and red wine.

Sometimes classic is best, so why not try a fail-safe roast chicken recipe? This 'beer can' roast chicken is incredibly moist and the beer gives it a delicious malty flavour.

Serve with roast potatoes and carrots when you want to take things back to basics, or for a spring/summer alternative, served with buttered greens with just a pinch of rock slat scattered over. 

Get the beer can roast chicken recipe.

This lighter lunch dish serves up to six people and takes just half an hour to make. Tasty bacon and delicious parmesan help to flavour this easy dish – so you know you’re getting a speedy meal that’s super simple and tastes great, too. 

Get the recipe for the broccoli and bacon frittata.

Catering to vegetarians? These multi-veg cottage pies couldn't be simpler and they taste delicious. Plus, as you can make them in individual dishes, they're a brilliant solution if your entertaining friends with multiple dietary requirements, as you can just make enough to cater for those who don't eat meat. 

Get the recipe for vegetable cottage pies with sweet potato mash.

Desserts

Finish off a delightful meal with this rhubarb and lemon tart.  Particularly in summer when rhubarb is in season, this makes a great dessert. 

Get the recipe for Rhubarb and Lemon Tart.

For a really impressive dessert give this chocolate and hazelnut mousse cake a go. Finished with a sprinkling of honeycomb, it looks truly stunning and tastes just as good. Serve in bowls, ramekins, or clean jars for a rustic finish. 

Get the recipe for chocolate mousse with honey hazelnut praline.

For a really simple but impressive dessert, give this meringue roulade with orange and passion fruit a go. It's the perfect combination of flavours and textures. 

Get the recipe for meringue roulade with orange and passion fruit.

For a dessert that features everyone's favourite flavours, try this delicious chocolate florentine torte. Guests will be left asking for seconds...and maybe even thirds!

Get the Chocolate Florentine Torte recipe. 

Everyone loves a coffee to finish a good meal, so delight guests with this impressive coffee panna cotta. Finished with honeyed pecans, it's a real treat to enjoy at the weekend. 

Get the recipe for coffee panna cotta with honeyed pecans.

With these Christmas cake decorating ideas, creating a show-stopping festive centrepiece has never been easier.

When is comes to Christmas dessert ideas, a traditional Christmas cake is a must-have and the sweet icing combined with a moist, rich fruit cake is usually a crowd-pleaser.

Even the best Christmas cake recipe needs brilliant Christmas cake decorating ideas to finish it off with some suitably festive flair. Our ideas below range from the unbelievably simple, to showstoppers that would have the Great British Bake Off judges impressed.

But, you don't actually need to know how to make Christmas cake to use these Christmas cake decorating ideas. You can cheat and use a shop-bought, ready-made cake if you like and decorate on top - we won't tell!

The best festive Christmas cake decorating ideas

1. Decorate with gingerbread

It's so easy to decorate Christmas cakes with gingerbread - and so effective. Perfect if you have young children visiting at Christmas, all you have to do is make a tray of gingerbread in your desired shape after you've made your Christmas cake and are ready to decorate. 

To decorate your cake with gingerbread like in the Christmas cake decorating ideas above, make up some royal icing according to packet instructions, then smooth it over the cake with a spatula, without being too precise - it's a snow effect you're looking for. 

Then mix icing sugar with a little water to form a sticky paste. You can then use this to stick the gingerbread shapes to the side of your cake, like in the example above with gingerbread houses. Or, for an even simpler decorating idea, pile your cake high with gingerbread snowflakes - no sugar paste needed.

Etsy do a wonderful range of house-shaped cookie cutters and snowflake cookie cutters to achieve these Christmas cake decorating ideas.

2. Invest in a festive baking tin

When it comes to Christmas cake decorating, it’s easy to create a showstopper when you have the right implements. This festive Bundt tin from Nordic Ware will result in an effortless centrepiece with little or no decorating skill involved. Simply dust with caster sugar before serving and your guests will be in awe.

Try our Chocolate Christmas Bundt Cake recipe here and you can view the festive Bundt tin from Nordic Ware here.

3. Introduce some color

Red truly is the official colour of Christmas so it goes without saying that a Christmas cake blanketed in red fondant icing instead of the traditional white will not only turn heads but will also add a festive feel to your cake this season. 

You can buy pre-dyed red fondant icing here or dye your own (we like Sugarflair food colouring) to create the exact shade of Christmas that you want to achieve.

4. Let winter woodland scenes inspire your Christmas cake decorating ideas

For a rustic Christmas cake decorating idea, top your iced cake with pine cones or with a ring of rosemary as in the picture above. Finish with a sprinkling of edible glitter to create a pretty winter scene to bring to the table. 

If you forage pine cones or holly to add a natural woodland element to your decoration, ensure you clean them carefully first. Tie a ribbon around the base of the cake, secured with a little icing sugar mixed with water to make a glue. All you have to do is set aside the pine cones before you slice into the cake.

5. Embrace your inner child

Christmas cake decorating doesn't always need to be a work of art. A good shake of icing sugar to create a snowy landscape and Santa and his pals will be happy to take centre stage. What's more, the children will love it. 

How cute are these mini Christmas ornaments from Paperchase?

6. Create a scene

This Christmas cake decorating idea might look intricate and complicated, but in actual fact it is quite simple to achieve. 

You'll need to forgo traditional fondant icing for this decorating idea and use royal icing or a more modern frosting instead. Then, when you spread it over the cake with a palette knife, but don't make it too neat - as this will help create the rippled snow effect. 

If you want to create a slope or little hill like we have in the Christmas cake decorating idea above, cut a section out of the top half of the cake and then layer that slither onto another part of the cake. Then just ice over the different layers and smooth out the icing to make it appear as one. 

When the icing is still soft, stand up your Christmas tree cake toppers and little houses. You can either bake the gingerbread houses,  or buy some - which should be easy to find at most supermarkets at this time of year. Complete the scene with a sprinkle of edible glitter and you could even add this little car driving home for Christmas decoration from Lakeland for a sweet touch.

7. Keep it simple

Sometimes, you want your cake to do the talking and a simple arrangement of candied fruits and nuts will do just that. Dried orange slices, candied figs or cherries interspersed with hazelnuts and walnuts can result in a simple cake decoration that is sublimely seasonal and easy to achieve.

Keep your Christmas cake simple but sophisticated by glazing a plain Christmas cake with apricot jam and arranging rows of Brazil nuts and pecans in stripes across the top, in between rows of dried cranberries. Use a pastry brush to glaze the top with apricot jam for a shiny finish.

8. Stick to tradition

If ever there were a time to stick with tradition, Christmas is it. Pine cones, nuts, sprigs of holly and cranberries will all turn your cake into a festive masterpiece with little or no effort on your behalf.

Serve with the best mince pies for a dessert spread of classic festive fare, or make things a little more modern and serve one of these Christmas cheesecake recipes as an alternative sweet option to your traditional pud. 

9. Consider a drip cake

If you want the appearance of a professional cake but are short on time (or skill), a drip cake is an easy way to achieve a polished look when it comes to cake decorating. Simply ice your cake with plain fondant icing and then, using a squeeze bottle filled with chocolate ganache, go around the edges on the top of the cake squeezing to form ‘drips’ as you go. Decorate the top with an assortment of seasonal foliage and voila, instant wow factor.

10. Get creative with sugar models

If you have a little more time on your hands to really get creative with your Christmas cake decorating ideas this year, why not try re-creating this incredible 'Night Before Christmas' cake? 

You'll need to model the mouse out of sugar paste (there are some great step-by-step guides you can buy to teach you how) but the rest of the decoration is quite straight forward and follows the traditional method for decorating Christmas cakes. 

11. Bring stars to the table

Skip the icing altogether by making a feature of your marzipan layer. Use a snowflake cutter to stamp out marzipan stars and glue them to your marzipan layer with a little water. Use a cook's blowtorch to pick out the snowflake edges and sprinkle with edible glitter. 

Follow our star studded chocolate Christmas cake recipe and this Christmas cake decorating idea couldn't be simpler. 

HOW TO DECORATE A CHRISTMAS CAKE

1. Start by turning your Christmas cake over so the flatter underside is the top - this makes it easier to decorate with a neat finish. 
2. Then, brush your cake with warmed, sieved apricot jam. 
3. On a surface dusted with icing sugar, roll out a layer of marzipan to the thickness of a £1 coin.
4. Roll up around a rolling pin, then unravel onto the cake. Smooth around the sides with your hands and guide neatly into the edges. 
5. Trim any excess with a sharp knife. If you want to just cover the top of the cake, cut the marzipan to size using a round cutter the same width as the cake.
6. Still on the surface dusted with icing sugar, roll out fondant icing to between ¼-½cm and either cut to fit the top of the cake or make sure it's wide enough to cover the whole cake.
7. Roll up around the rolling pin, brush the marzipan layer lightly with water then unravel the icing onto the cake. Smooth and guide into the edges neatly with your hands, then trim to fit with a sharp knife.
8. To give fondant icing the professional look, use a cake smoother. This simple plastic tool is inexpensive, but will make such a difference to your finished cake.
9. Or to cover with royal icing for a snow effect, make according to packet instructions then spread over the cake with a palette knife.

If you've ever struggled to know the perfect bottle of wine to buy for your friends, that's not just the classic go-to bottle of Prosecco, or have wondered why you're always drawn to a particular kind of tipple and it's not just the price? 

Well, star signs are more than just a personality predictor - they can also tell you what your favorite wine should be, without even tasting a drop.

So if you're the type who starts off every Monday by checking your weekly horoscope, then perhaps matching your choice of wine to your star sign could be the way to narrow it down.

Campo Viejo has partnered with millennial astrology extraordinaire Francesca Oddie to find the perfect wine for your star sign. Are you a Libra? Then a Tempranillo is perfect for you! Looking to please an Aries? Bring them a Malbec!

According to research, 82% of consumers choose their wine based on the appearance of the label, so picture Campo Viejo as Hinge and your perfect wine as the 6ft 4 investment banker who’s ready to settle down...

The popularity of astrology has soared over the last 12 months, with searches for “astrology” hitting a five-year peak in 2020, as millennials crave positivity during the lockdown and turn to the stars for guidance, decision-making, and hope. And it looks like astrology could apply to your wine choices too: can an indecisive Taurus drink a glass of red with a fiery Leo? Probably not.

Astrologer Francesca Oddie, told us, “For centuries we have looked to the stars for guidance on love, friendship and success, so why not let the stars help us pick the perfect tipple? From the best wine to enjoy with a seductive Scorpio, to the perfect pairing for a fiercely independent Aries. The Wines of the Zodiac chart will point wine lovers in the right direction, providing the perfect match to enjoy just in time for spring.”

ARIES – MALBEC

• Limited Release Malbec 2018 at Laithwaite's for £14.99

TAURUS – GARNACHA

• Spanish Garnacha at Co-op for £5.35

GEMINI – CAVA

• Campo Viejo Cava Brut Reserva at Home Delivery Wine for £8.99

CANCER - SHIRAZ

LEO - ROSÉ

• Campo Viejo Rose Wine at Drink Supermarket for £8.99

VIRGO - ALBARIÑO

• Lagar de Cervera Albariño at Waitrose Cellar for £14.99

LIBRA - TEMPRANILLO

SCORPIO - GRACIANO

• Ulterior Graciano Parcela No. 17 Organic Bodegas Verum at The Great Wine Co. for £19.95

SAGITTARIUS - VIURA BLANCO

• Campo Viejo Rioja Viura-Tempranillo Blanco White Wine at Sainsbury's for £8

CAPRICORN – MAZUELO

AQUARIUS - SAUVIGNON BLANC

• Brancott Estate Flight Sauvignon Blanc at Asda for £8.50

PISCES - CHARDONNAY

• Jacob’s Creek Classic Chardonnay at Morrisons for £6.75

Campo Viejo wines are available across all major retailers, online and in-store, from RRP £8.25.

If you’re self-isolating, or just want to stay at home as much as possible right now, then these festive cocktails, delivered straight to your door, will get you in the Christmas spirit.

The margaritas, created by London based agave bar Hacha and Two Keys , have been given a Christmas twist - with ingredients such as cinnamon, ginger and clementine.

But the best news? The cocktails, priced at £14.95 for two, are available for delivery – nationwide.

The two new limited-edition reinventions, perfect for a secret Santa present, are packed full of festive flavours and are the perfect treat to enjoy in the comfort of your own home this Christmas. 

If you can't choose which flavour to go for you - you're in luck, as the Clementine and Cinnamon Mirror Margarita topped with Two Keys Lemon and the Mulled Mirror Margarita topped with Two Keys Pink Grapefruit, come as a pair.

While both tipples use classic Christmas flavours including the sweet spice of cinnamon, ginger and clementine. The cocktails can be bought via their online store.

The best thing about the cocktails? Well, apart from the taste, is that all profits will go to support Equal Measures, a charitable initiative to raise awareness around diversity and inclusion within the hospitality industry.

Although Hacha bar is closed during lockdown they launched an at-home digital store last week - where you can also pick up some of their classics  - which includes their award-winning Mirror Margarita, a new non-alcoholic version for those choosing not to drink, plus a new agave twist on classic aperitif cocktails.

No ice? No problem - actress Daisy Haggard discovered this unusual combination for her G&T!

When it comes to garnishing our G&Ts, half of us just about remember to freeze the ice let alone ensure we have something suitable on hand to make the drink look pretty.

Well fear not this festive season, as London-born TV star Daisy Haggard, who has starred in shows such asEpisodes, Uncle, and Breeders, took to Twitterto share a selfie raising a glass filled with peas and gin.

Peas and gin, did I hear you say? Yes. And here's what happened.

READ MORE:Wilko’s 24 gins of Christmas gin advent calendar has arrived – and it’s set to sell out!

Let's just say it was an accidental revelation.

Daisy had ordered a 2kg bag of ice from her supermarket but when the ice failed to make her delivery she took to using the substitute she had been sent.

'Dear @sainsburys .. thank you for thoughtfully substituting my 2kg of ice order with FROZEN PEAS. My G&T is outstanding!' she wrote.

READ MORE:G & Tea cocktailRecipe

Sainsbury's were quick to step in and look into the matter, with one worker tweeting, "Doesn't that look like a tasty treat! I'd like to get this fed back to the store for you. Can you DM me via the link below and confirm the email and order number on your account and I'll have a look into this?"

But it's actually a garnish served in some bars. Simply pour your gin and tonic into a glass filled with ice cubes and garnish with a sugar snap pea. Snap the pea before adding it to release its flavour. And that got us thinking of other weird but wonderful garnishes...

What other unusual gin and tonic and other alcoholic drink garnishes are there?

1. Sirloin steak dipper

• Best for: Savoury cocktails, with a whisky base.
• How to make it: Use a blend of Monkey Shoulder Scotch whisky and rosemary syrup served with a slice of 21-day aged Scotch beef sirloin steak for “soaking or dipping in the drink”.

2.Bourbon-soaked cherries

• Best for: Sweetening up Manhattans and making adult cherry Cokes
• How to make it: Pit cherries and soak in bourbon-spiked sugar syrup.

3. Gin & Tonic pickles

• Best for:Garnishing tonic-based drinks and Bloody Marys
• How to make it: Add gin and tonic to brine, and then pop your pickles in - gherkins / onions / turnips or cucumber. Leave to soak and use at your heart's content.

READ MORE:5 ways to improve a gin and tonic

4. Bitters Cubes / Mustard sachet

• Best for:Bringing sweet herbal complexity to drinks (and making a great Old Fashioned, French 75, or Sazerac)
• How to make it: Combine 1/2-cup sugar with a tablespoon of bitters (traditionally an alcoholic preparation flavoured with botanical matter) then let dry in a mini cube mould. Or instead of bitters peg a packet of Heinz English Mustard to the rim to serve with a black mustard leaf distillate.

5. Sherbet

• Best for:Chilling and flavouring sparkling drinks and prosecco
• How to make it: Create perfect scoops by dipping your spoon in hot water before gliding through the sorbet using several short passes.

6. Candied Citrus Peel

• Best for:Adding a hint of tangy sweetness to virtually any drink
• How to make it: Cut the zest of lemons, oranges, or grapefruit into matchsticks (without the pith), then simmer with sugar syrup. Optional: Roll in sugar and let dry.

7. Ginger syrup

• Best for: Giving a spicy kick to lemonade, tea, rum, and bourbon-based cocktails.
• How to make it: Simmer fresh-cut ginger in simple syrup for up to 45 minutes.

Or maybe you have discovered an unusual cocktail garnish of your own...if so please do share!

Even the best cheeseboard needn't take too long to prepare. We love a classic cheeseboard for its simplicity - you don't need fancy gadgets like the best blenders or best induction pans to create something spectacular. But an eye for presentation certainly helps!

Celeb chef Gizzi Erskine has put together a guide on how to construct the perfect cheeseboard for a dinner party, special occasion or Christmas.

From the type of cheeses you're going to need on the table, to how best to serve them and with what. Ever thought to make dehydrated grapes? Gizzi tells us how! Wow your guests with a fantastic cheese board that you can make any time of year. If you need further dinner party recipes inspiration, we've got a huge collection for you to explore.

Here are Gizzi Erskine's top tips on how to build a cheeseboard

Buying

There are no rules. We're all different. Have fun. Explore. Experiment. Discover. The same goes for pairings; try cider and beer as well as wine and fizz. Match the sweetness of a grape with the saltiness of a Stilton. Try a sharp Cheshire with apple pie, or Cheddar with a strong porter beer.

Storing

Serve about 15C, not straight out of the fridge. Let it get oozy and stinky. To store, wrap cheeses individually in cheese (waxed) paper. Keep different types of cheese, such as white bloomy rinds, blues and hard cheeses, separate. If storing in plastic containers as well, refresh the air every day, let the cheeses breathe, then rewrap. Soft and blue cheeses should be stored at 4-8C. Semi-hard and hard cheeses should be stored at 8-12C.

Arranging

Buy some classic crowd-pleasers and select a few cheeses that people might not know. Allow a flow from the softer and gooiest cheeses to the hardest...

Gooey Brie, Saint-Marcellin, Gorgonzola

Lactic, mild and tangy fresh goats' cheese such as Clifton Leaf or Rouelle du Tarn

Sour and crumbly Wensleydale, Bourne's Cheshire, or ewes' milk Swaledale

Sticky, stinky rind-washed My personal favourite category, I like Aged Abondance or Jumi's Aarewasser

Rich intense goat I've recently discovered Tor from Glastonbury

Hard Cheddar is unbeatable. I like Barber's Vintage and aged Lincolnshire Poacher. You chould also try Gruyère, Gouda, Comté, or Grana Padano

Blue It's Christmas, so you've got to have some Stilton - I love Colston Bassett, which is crumbly, creamy chocolate with salt. BUT... explore the world of blues. There are hundreds.

Bread or crackers?

Both for me - heritage grain sourdough bread and a selection of crackers. I also love fuit and nut sourdough breads. A good baguette, preferably sourdough, is a winner too. Leftover Christmas cake is a brilliant accompaniment, and if you've never tried cheese with malt loaf you are missing out!

Serving suggestions

Frozen grapes Bung a bunch of red or black grapes in the freezer overnight and whip them out just before you're ready to serve your cheese plate; the icy cold texture is a revelation with cheese.

Dehydrated grapes Place a bunch of red, white or black grapes on to a baking tray and bake in a preheated oven at 50C, or the lowest temperateure your oven will go, for 12 hours or overnight. Once cool, they are terrific with cheese.

Fresh grapes Alternatively, serve the classic way with fresh grapes

Fresh slices of pear or apple One of the simplest, best accompaniments.

Fresh figs These go well with the rind-washed goats' cheeses.

Celery sticks Brilliant with hard cheeses.

Pickled fruits and nuts I love to serve cheese alongside pickled pears. Mustard fruits, quince and pickled walnuts are my other favourites.

Chutneys Serving chutneys from spoons is a really cool way to show them off. I love a good quince, pear or dried fruit chutney at Christmas.

Find more ideas Gizzi's Season's Eating: Feasts & Celebrations from Halloween to Happy New Year (Mitchell Beazley, £25) by Gizzi Erskine. Main photography by Emma Lee.

No party is complete without a selection of stunning canapés. Try our canapé recipes this weekend for the perfect party.

Canapés complete any party, giving your guests something to nibble on while they catch up over a glass of wine. Plus, our stunning (yet secretly very easy) canapé recipes will leave them in no doubt of your capabilities in the kitchen. If you're looking for interesting ways to delight guests' palates, you've come to the right place.

Canapés are a really simple, lovely way to get people talking at your party, and because they're so easy to eat and are usually small nibbles, they're the perfect food to socialise over. They allow people to mingle and have a good time without tying them down to one spot. Our canapé recipes are all really easy to make and make the ideal bite sized treat.

Our favouritecanapé recipes

Whether you're looking for savoury canapés like out mini crostinis made with figs and black olive tapande or something sweeter, like chocolate truffles or mini éclairs, we've got something to suit any soiree.

If you're serving canapés with an aperitif pre-dinner, then try to stick to some of the lighter options like our clever little soup shots (think bloody Mary flavours) or marinated king prawns. However, if you're having a drinks reception, with no sit down meal, then go all out on the canapés and serve up plenty of potato and bread based bite-sized treats as well as some pudding options, too. The cheese fondue with crispy new potatoes in the picture above are a perfect if you fancy a few hot bites.

We have plenty more crostini, tartlet and bruschetta ideas that are meat-free so you can pick whatever tickles your fancy. But for a more meaty option, try our pork and prawn dim sum. They are quite the treat!

So, what are you waiting for? Try our exciting and unique flavour combinations and you'll be wowing friends and family in no time with some original and delicious little treats.

Click through for more canapé recipes...

Mini Apple Rarebit

Apple, cheese and mustrad come together in these goregous mini apple rarebits, which are perfect for passing round at a party. Plus, they only take 15 minutes to make!See the mini apple rarebits recipe.

Medjool Dates Stuffed With Roquefort

This is on eo fthe easiest assembly party nibbles, ready in just 5 minutes - and a fantastic flavour combination that tastes just like Christmas.See the Medjool dates stuffed iwth Roquefort recipe.

Smoked Salmon Blinis

Our smoked salmon blinis are a canapé favourite, especially if you make your own blini. They're a lot softer and airier than shop-bought, and everyone will appreciate the extra effort you've gone to, to really make your party stand out. We love them topped with wild Alaskan smoked salmon, which is thicker cut than most other types and a little drier too.

Soup Shots

Pass round some very easy soup shots, in Bloody Mary, white gazpacho and guacamole flavours, which you won't believe takes just 15 minutes to make! See the soup shots recipe.

Fig and Black Olive Tapenade Crostini

It's so easy to make these simple crostini with salty tapenade topped with a fig slice that you can make 25 in 10 minutes.See the fig and black olive tapenade crostini recipe.

Kale Pesto and Curd Cheese Crostini

Have you seen a canapé with as much colour as our kale pesto and curd cheese crostini? They're a delight to both look at and eat, and what's even better - they take no time at all to make! 

Oven Dried Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Bruschetta

Bruschetta is one of our favourite choices for a canapé as it's easy to eat and a real crowd-pleaser. Try our recipe for oven dried cherry tomato and mozzarella bruschetta - both easy and tasty! 

Hot Smoked Salmon Pate

Served on bite-size granary toast squares, this hot smoked salmon pate recipe makes the perfect fishy appetizer. Add a squeeze of lemon to the pate to give that extra flavour.

Lentil Falafel with Garlic Yogurt Sauce

If you're expecting vegetarians round, or simply want to opt for a vegetarian canapé option, try our lentil falafels with garlic yogurt sauce. They're a dream for both those who are meat-free and carnivores alike. 

Roasted Red Pepper and Goats' Cheese Crostini

There's nothing quite like the sweet flavour of roasted red peppers, so if you like them, then you'll love our roasted red pepper and goats' cheese crostini. They're an absolute delight. 

Hot and Sour Marinated King Prawns

These hot and sour marinated king prawns are irresistibly moreish and wonderfully easy to prepare - you may want to make a double batch! Great for pre-dinner nibbles in place of a starter.

Tapenade Crostini

Everyone loves a freshly made tapenade so give our tapenade crostini a go. They make for a delightfully moreish canapé. 

Ricotta Tartlets with Fig and Honey

Sweet and savoury come together in the best possible way in the form of these ricotta tartlets with fig and honey. They are lovely party food and guests will be delighted. 

Broad Bean Roasted Pepper Mozzarella and Anchovy Bruschetta

Try this lovely new flavour combination of broad bean roasted pepper mozzarella and anchovy bruschetta. Guests will be delighted by how delicious and original this recipe is. 

Filo Tarts with Caramelised Onion and Goats' Cheese

These delicious filo tarts with caramelised onion and goats' cheese make great canapes for a party. You can easily make them the day before and assemble right before your guests arrive. 

Vietnamese Lemongrass, Chicken and Prawn Wraps

This is typical of much Vietnamese food where you wrap and dip. It's very sociable and we love to serve this Vietnamese lemongrass, chicken and prawn wrap recipe with drinks pre-dinner, rather than as a starter. 

Herring Caviar, Creme Fraiche and Toasted Brioche Fingers

Looking for a glamorous but quick and easy recipe? Simple: serve herring caviar, creme fraiche and toasted brioche fingers for a really impressive and yet simple and delicious canapé. 

Braised New Seasons Garlic with Tapenade Toasts and Fresh Goats Cheese

Serve this braised new seasons garlic with tapenade toasts and fresh goats' cheese as a medium-sized canape, or elaborate the recipe and serve as part of an anti-pasti platter for dinner party starters.

Mini Crab Tartlets

Our mini crab tartlets are a dinner party dream. They're so easy to make and are really sociable food as they are perfectly bite sized. 

Pork and Prawn Dim Sum

For a canapé with an Oriental twist give our pork and prawn dim sum a go. They're everyone's favourite and are surprisingly easy to make at home. 

Tandoori Marinated Prawns with Raita

Our tandoori marinade prawns with raita are a real favourite - they're packed full of flavour and are so delightfully moreish! 

Red Pepper Anchovy Crostini

Sweet and salty, these gorgeous red pepper and anchovy crostini bites are perfect for a quick nibble before dinner. We've added a good kick of garlic too, for a strong Italian flavour.

Jamon and Manchego Croquettas

Creamy and cheesy on the inside, yet light and crunchy on the outside, these jamon and manchego croquettas are a wonderful way to bring a touch of Spain to your next soiree.

Vietnamese Pork Balls

These fragrant mini Vietnamese pork balls are packed with the flavours of ginger, fish sauce and mint, giving them a heady taste of Asia.

Chocolate and Salted Caramel Canapes

Sometimes you just want a couple of small sweet treats at the end of your drinks party, and these chocolate and salted caramel canapés are perfect. Made with rich cream, smooth chocolate and a delicious salted caramel these truffles are dangerously moreish!

Mini Baileys Eclairs

It's not every day you're met with a mini Baileys filled eclair! Give your guests a really delicious finish to your canapé offering with these gorgeous little puffs of choux pastry.

Mini Bakewells

This is a canapé for those with a sweet tooth - made with soft frangipane, sweet raspberry jam and buttery pastry. Whenever you decide to serve these mini bakewells, you can be sure of one thing - they'll be a hit with your guests.

Mini brown sugar and hazelnut meringues

What says party more than a pile of cloud-like meringues? These delicious mini brown sugar and hazelnut meringues give more flavour than your average and don't need the addition of any fruit or cream - they're perfect as they are (which also means less mess!).

If you're throwing a dinner party this week and are in need of a trusty recipe, look no further than our delicious collection of meals that are guaranteed to get your guests' taste buds tingling

If you want to keep things simple, you can’t go wrong with a classic steak recipe. Our Chargrilled Steak with Basil Orecchiette is a great option to try as it’s a wonderful combination of meat and carbs thanks to the delicate ear shaped pasta, rich beef and delicious basil sauce. Or for something extra special, there’s our Fillet Steaks with Blue Cheese Butter and Bubble and Squeak Cakes that offer a delicious twist on this juicy cut of meat.

Duck also makes a great meat to serve to guests as it feels very luxurious, and we’ve got plenty of amazing dishes to try from. Our Duck with Pomegranate and Walnuts is an aromatic Middle Eastern style dish that’s full of sweetness thanks to the use of pomegranate Molasses.

Dinner parties can be the perfect time to try something you wouldn’t usually cook, so we’ve also got plenty of different dishes to try this weekend too. Our Roast Venison with Cranberry and Sour Cherry is wonderfully rich, while our Chorizo-Stuffed Squid With Butter Beans is an interesting dish to try out if you want something unusual to slow cook.

Salmon makes a real treat of a recipe for any dinner party you may have coming up and this recipe looks and tastes really special. For something simple but really impressive looking, why not try a classic Salmon en Croute?

Now, to kick things off, we’ve got a delicious spicy salmon recipe your guests will just love. This stuffed spicy salmon recipe is our take on kedgeree where a rice mix is used to stuff two fillets of salmon to make a delicious seafood roast.

Get the recipe:Stuffed Spicy Salmon

Dinner Party Mains: Prawn Pilaf

A curry recipe with a twist, this delicious prawn curry dish is like a paella meets a pilaf - with a sweet and sour taste in a really fragrant dish.Ready in just an hour and low in calories, this dish serves six people - so it's a great crowd pleaser. Get the recipe: Prawn Pilaf

Dinner Party Mains: Coriander Chicken

A chicken curry idea that is super quick to make but tastes amazing, you can't go wrong with feeding a crowd if you've got a good curry recipe like this that gets most of the prep out of the way before your guests arrive. Low in saturated fat, this dish is cooked up in 40 minutes so great if you're in a hurry too.Get the recipe: Coriander Chicken

Dinner Party Mains: Fillet Steaks with Blue Cheese Butter and Bubble and Squeak Cakes

A real treat for your guests, this steak recipe won't come cheap, but will be totally worth it for the look on their satisfied faces. Perfect for a special occasion, the rich blue cheese butter really makes this steak dish. Get the recipe: Fillet Steaks with Blue Cheese Butter and Bubble and Squeak Cakes

Dinner Party Mains: Salmon with Prawns

Mix up your usual salmon dish for your next dinner party by adding in some juicy prawns. This light dish is easy to prepare and takes hardly any time in the oven, plus the fish stays tender and moist because it’s steamedGet the recipe: Salmon with Prawns

Dinner Party Mains: Duck with Pomegranate and Walnuts

A rich dish that would make a great pre-Christmas dinner party main, try this tasty duck meal this week and you'll not regret it. Using sweet pomegranate molasses, it's got a real Middle Eastern vibe you'll love. Get the recipe: Duck with Pomegranate and Walnuts

Dinner Party Mains: Chargrilled Steak with Basil Orecchiette

A great steak dish that's really complimented by a side of ear-shaped pasta that you'll love. What's more, it's ready in just 25 minutes, so it's a great one to try if you're not wanting to spend hours in the kitchen. Get the recipe: Chargrilled Steak with Basil Orecchiette

Dinner Party Mains: Salmon En Croute

When it comes to classic dishes, you can't go wrong with Salmon en Croute for your next dinner party.Filled with spinach and wrapped in puff pastry, it's a great fail safe option everyone will love. Get the recipe: Salmon En Croute

Dinner Party Mains: John Torode's Duck with Potatoes

John Torode's duck with potatoes recipe is a lovely Parisian-inspired dish that's very simple to make but full of flavour, and a real treat as a dinner party main. Ready in just over an hour, it's super simple to throw together too. Get the recipe: John Torode's Duck with Potatoes

Dinner Party Mains: Roast Venison with Cranberry and Sour Cherry

Dinner Party Mains: Chorizo-Stuffed Squid With Butter Beans

Chorizo-stuffed squid with butter beans brings you a taste of the Mediterranean in a lovely slow cooked dinner that is perfectly tender and delicious.If you're looking for a new meal to serve up this week, look no further than this flavoursome dish. Get the recipe: Chorizo-Stuffed Squid With Butter Beans

Dinner Party Mains: Sea Bass Baked In Salt

This dinner party recipe looks amazing and tastes even better, but it's actually fairly easy to make. The salt crust keeps the flesh beautifully moist without actually imparting any saltiness, so you needn't worry about over seasoning the fish. Sea bass baked in salt is ready in just 45 minutes and serves six people - perfect for feeding a crowd! Get the recipe: Sea Bass Baked In Salt

Dinner Party Mains: Mexican Chicken

This is one of our all time favourites - Mexican chicken thighs smothered in a spiced sauce with a little bit of dark chocolate to give it that extra richness and deep colour.

Dinner Party Mains: Duck Confit With Pancetta Lentils

A classic French dish, treat your dinner party guests to this exquisite duck dish next time you're throwing a get together.It looks super complicated and cheffy, but it's actually really easy! Get the recipe: Duck Confit With Pancetta Lentils

Dinner Party Mains: Boned Garlic Lamb with Sweet and Sour Red Onions and Lentils

Lamb is such a luxurious meat and makes a great dinner party main. This version is roasted with sweet and sour onions to really ramp up that flavour. What's more, this recipe serves eight so it's great for a crowd. Get the recipe: Boned Garlic Lamb with Sweet and Sour Red Onions and Lentils

Dinner Party Mains: Steak with Stilton, mushrooms and Masala sauce

Steak is a classic dinner choice and this version with Stilton, mushrooms and Masala is really special. Stilton lends a rich, rounded flavour that goes brilliantly with steak - perfect for a weekend meal if you're entertaining guests.Get the recipe: Steak with Stilton, mushrooms and Masala Sauce

Dinner Party Mains: Roast Loin of Pork with Crackling

If you love crackling then this is the dinner party main for you. With soft pork and that beautifully crunchy outer layer it makes the perfect Sunday lunch meal when served up with golden potatoes and a rich gravy.If you're going to go for an indulgent dinner party main like this one then you can serve up simple starts and desserts, leaving you plenty of time to chat with your guestsGet the recipe: Roast Loin of Pork with Crackling and Spicy Pear

Dinner Party Mains: Beef Wellington

A classic British recipe and still a great one - try this beef Wellington for your next dinner party if you want a fail safe main option. It's a great showstopping centre piece for any get together and is mostly prep-ahead too. Get the recipe: Beef Wellington

Dinner Party Mains: Butternut And Orzo Risotto

Dinner Party Mains: Smoked Haddock and Bacon Risotto

Risotto is a quick and easy way to feed a crowd when you're throwing a dinner party. 

Dinner Party Mains: Seafood Paella

A great way to spice up the main event at your next dinner party, give this tasty Mediterranean dish a go.

New Year's Eve recipes for entertaining, whether you're planning an intimate dinner party or a drinks party for a crowd

New Year's Eve recipes for entertaining, whether you're planning an intimate dinner party or a drinks party for a crowd.

Keep it simple this year with easy but impressive recipes that you can make ahead, so you won't have to think about the food or drinks once your guests arrive.

Go for easy party food that you can throw together in advance, like rosemary bar nuts, cheese-stuffed dates and a savoury cheesecake that makes an excellent alternative to a cheeseboard, which guests can help themselves to.

For drinks, pick some easy all-in-one jug cocktails that make a change from fizz and ask guests to bring a bottle from the ingredients list so that you can keep those cocktails flowing all night.

Prefer to have a more intimate gathering? Make an extra special New Year's Eve dinner party menu with an impressive centrepiece. Make a beef Wellington to show you've really made the effort, or go for a roast side of salmon, which is a simple way to feed a crowd without compromising on the main event.

Whatever approach you choose, these easy recipes will help make it a New Year's Eve to remember.

Make a gorgeous tear and share bread like this easy focaccia with sweet red onions and figs.

See the focaccia with red onions and figs recipe.

Scroll through to see more New Year's Eve recipe ideas...

Savoury Cheesecake

Make a savoury cheesecake instead of a cheeseboard and let guests help themselves. Everyone will be talking about it!See the savoury cheesecake recipe.

Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington makes a stunning centrepiece for a special occasion like a New Year's Eve dinner party.See the beef Wellington recipe.

Roast Side Of Salmon With Chickpea Dukkah

Make an extra special meal with this roast side of salmon topped with a chunky chickpea dukkah. So easy to share.See the roast salmon with chickpea dukkah recipe.

Lobster Tail And Prawn Fish Pie

Take fish pie to New Year's Eve level with this luxurious recipe using lobster tails and prawns.See the lobster tail and prawn fish pie recipe.

Fino And Tonic

Fino sherry and tonic is our go-to party drink, which is so easy to make up a big jug to share.See the fino and tonic recipe.

Salted Caramel Roulade

Desserts don't get much more special than this salted caramel roulade, which shows you really made the effort - and it's SO worth it!See the salted caramel roualde recipe.

Sushi To Share

Make a terrine with a twist with this simple sushi recipe thhat you can slice and share as a starter or party bite.See the sushi recipe.

Melted Goats' Cheese With Figs

This melted goats cheese with figs recipe is perfect as a light supper, or, with halved quantities, it makes a tasty starter before a heavyweight main course.

Beetroot And Vodka Cured Salmon

A stunning beetroot and vodka cured salmon recipe during the festive season, and lovely and light for a three course meal if you're entertaining.

Chocolate And Peanut Cheesecake

Like a giant Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, this chocolate and peanut cheesecake recipe is wickedly decadent.

Boozy Tiramisu Torte

This boozy tiramisu torte recipe has a rich and satisfying hit of coffee, cream and liqueur.

Chocolate Parfait With Irish Cream

Seductively rich and mouthwatering, this delicious chocolate parfait with Irish cream recipe is easy to make and keeps well in the freezer for two days if it's well wrapped in clingfilm.

Salted Caramel Wreath Cake

Make this impressive wreath cake the day before and bring it out as the perfect end to your special dinner party. Add sparlers for extra wow factor.See the salted caramel wreath cake recipe.

Christmas cocktail recipes that you can easily make at home, including mulled white wine, mulled cider and spiked hot chocolate

Christmas Cocktail Recipes

Christmas time means indulging yourself a little more than usual, and it's certainly not too early to start planning your drinks menu - after all, some consider it the most important part of a party! We've put together a list of the very best Christmas cocktail recipes that you can easily make at home, and our delicious ideas are bound to impress. Start planning now with a little help from us, and you can create a menu of Christmas cocktails that rival even the fanciest of bars.

Winter favourites like spiked (and spiced!) hot chocolate and warm butter rum punch are perfect for cosy nights in and relaxing weekends, but go all out for your next soiree with fizzy Champagne cocktails to help you get in the celebratory spirit. What could be more enjoyable than relaxing after a busy week, a Christmas film on in the background and a delicious frosted berry cocktail in hand?

Our pick of Christmas cocktails will work whether you're having a few friends around for a cheeky drink, a big family party with mocktails for the kids or relaxing at home in front of a roaring fire. Why not test them all out, and get feedback from family and friends? It's the best way to ensure everyone wants to be at your house this festive season!

Simple and budget-friendly, all you need for this gorgeous raspberry Kir Royale is sparkling wine and raspberry liqueur. The classic cocktail will work for your champagne breakfast on the big day, an accompaniment to a dinner party menu, or just served alone at a drinks party. And with such a simple cocktail that always impresses, your party is bound to go off with a bang!

Click through to see the rest of our Christmas cocktail recipes, and make your house the centre of everyone's celebrations this festive season...

Mulled White Wine

Mulled white wine makes a change from traditional mulled wine and brings in interesting flavours like rosemary and zingy lemon to offer a lighter alternative for guests who may not enjoy red varieties of grapes as much. Because you flavour the wine with so many aromatics along with a little sugar you don't have to use the most expensive wine, as reasonably priced bottles will taste just as nice once they're all jazzed up.

Mulled Cider

If you're looking for something a bit different this year then mulled cider with bay leaves makes a delicious hot cocktail with lovely festive flavours, and is a bit of a change to mulled wine. Served up in pretty glasses or even teacups this Christmassy drink will impress guests and is budget-friendly, too - so you can make plenty!

Espresso Hops Martini

This espresso martini is thick and frothy, which makes it perfect for Christmas parties. It was created especially for woman&home by Simone Caporale, mixologist at The Artesian Bar and takes the classic espresso martini to the next level - there's even advice for how to garnish it so you can make your cocktails look professional this year.

G & Tea

Be on trend and serve a G & Tea at your Christmas party, made with gin and green tea syrup. And as a bonus, you can keep this in your fridge up to a month. Make up a good batch so you've got a delicious drink to serve people if they turn up announced this year (which family seem to have a habit of doing!). This is perfect in the early evening with a few Christmas canapes.

Saint Lucia Rum Punch

Whip up a big batch of this crowd-pleasing Saint Lucia rum punch for your next festive get-together. Because you can make it in bulk you don't have to worry about taking lots of time (and creating lots of mess) to make everyone individual cocktails. If you have a large mason drinks jar this looks fab in that, and will stop any spillages, too.

The Christmas Duppy

An elegant twist on a classic; rum and ginger bring out the best in each other in the Christmas Duppy. Top with prosecco and serve in a Champagne coupe or flute over ice to make them extra festive. Just remember you're getting a double dose of alcohol in each glass so it might be wise to limit some of your more 'enthusiastic' guests.

Spiced Hot Chocolate

Perfect for a family party, mix up these spiced hot chocolates sans alcohol for the little ones and add a shot of gingerbread liqueur for the adults. Everyone will love the idea of warming their hands on little bottles of hot chocolate and they look dinky if served up all together on a pretty tray with some nice, festive straws.

Christmas Wahine

The ingredients in this Christmas Wahine cocktail make a sweet combination, and we like that this is named after the word 'woman' in Maori. It combines amaretto, cassis, lemon juice and fresh strawberry purée to make a gorgeously refreshing cocktail that is perfect for cutting through rich party food.

Frosted Berry

Black pepper and agave nectar lifts up the natural character of blanco tequila in the Frosted Berry cocktail. We like using big ice cubes in this Christmas cocktail, to keep them freezing cold and to minimise diluting the mixture. These are pretty strong so they make a really fun way to kick off a New Year party or big festive bash - just make sure to keep them out of reach of the kids!

Midnight Kiss

This Champagne cocktail aptly named Midnight Kiss, would make a perfect toast for New Year's Eve. The recipe shows you how to make your own strawberry and basil purée which is delicious and will keep for weeks in the fridge - perfect for last minute festivities. Once you've mastered one cocktail syrup you'll be able to make any flavours you fancy - so it really is a skill worth learning.

Christmas Cooler

Sometimes around Christmas time our taste buds can get a bit tired of spice and chocolate and caramel - and all the other lovely things associated with the festive period. Give your guests a refreshing watermelon and rum cocktail with this Christmas Cooler, they won't be expecting it and it'll give them something different to try this year. Because it's quite sweet it goes really well towards the end of an evening.

Rum Butter Punch

Warm your guests up quickly with a hot rum butter punch, it's somewhere between butterbear and a mulled rum - so it goes without saying that's it's absolutely delicious. The tiny amount of butter adds a subtle richness and smooth finish on the palette - once you've tried it you'll be hooked.

China Tang Going Strong

The whisky lovers will enjoy this China Tang Going Strong which begins with a full bouquet of citrus and minty aromas from the garnish and ends with a warm, smoky finish. Serve it up in metal cups for a high end feel or short, cut crystal whiskey glasses for a more traditional feel. Getting in the festive spirit? Take a look at our Christmas recipes.

Winter in Jalisco

If you're a tequila fan, then learning to perfect the Winter in Jalisco is a must. The festive Margarita is made up of 45ml Patrón Silver, 22.5ml Patrón XO Cafe, 15ml Patrón Citrónge Orange liqueur, 22.5ml fresh lemon juice and one barspoon of toasted sesame oil - and it's sure to impress your party guests! To make combine all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake with ice to chill, then strain over fresh ice into a double old-fashioned glass. Finally, garnish with a slice of fresh kumquat.

Haig Club Winter Spiced Espresso Martini

If you’re a caffeine addict then Dick Bradsell’s Haig Club Winter Spiced Espresso Martini is the cocktail for you. To make the decadent and delightful holiday twist, you’ll need to mix 50ml Haig Club, 50ml Crème de Cacao, 50ml espresso and some cinnamon.

Easy but impressive dinner party recipe ideas for entertaining friends, including starters, mains and desserts

Easy dinner party recipes that will impress, including make ahead starter recipes to share, dinner party main courses that you can get ready before your guests arrive and decadent desserts that will finish your meal in style.

Find everything you'll need to host the perfect dinner party, whether it's a relaxed gathering for friends or a more formal meal for a special occasion. Of course, we all want to impress when it comes to creating a delicious dinner party menu but there's no shame in looking for easy dinner party recipes to mean you spend less time in the kitchen - and more time with your guests! These recipes, picked by our food team, have interesting twists and flavours to help you give your guests something they might not have tried before... and a dinner they'll remember!

Our vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free options are clearly labelled in case you have anyone with a special diet coming round. There's something for everyone in our easy dinner party recipe collection, which we update regularly with brand new recipes and to reflect the new season.

To start, you could serve chilled avocado, cucumber and lime soup in pretty tea cups, make a glossy red onion tarte tartin to cut at the table or make a selection of homemade dips for a more informal approach, such as white bean and garlic served with salty tortilla chips.

And for dessert? We've selected easy make ahead recipes such as marsala and mascarpone syllabub, individual rhubarb and orange crumbles served in jam jars or a show-stopping chocolate and honeycomb torte. The fab thing about this coconut sorbet recipe is that it's so simple to make without an ice cream maker - and you can just pull it out the freezer when you need it! And it tastes just like summer!

Garlic, Red Pepper And Anchovy Crostini

Roasting the garlic reallly makes these simple crostini, which are then very quick to assemble before your guests arrive. Great with your first drink!See the garlic, red pepper and anchovy crostini recipe.

Salmon papillote with fennel and grapefruit

A summers dinner party in the garden is a great excuse to crack out the barbie. But it doesn’t have to be all meat meat meat. This easy and delicious Salmon papillote with fennel and grapefruit will have all your guest asking for the recipe.

Teriyaki steak and garlic greens

Enjoy Teriyaki steak and garlic greens for smaller dinners. It’s perfection for a romantic meal for two. Or in summer take your meat outside to the BBQ, and elevate your grilling game with this sweet sticky Teriyaki marinade.

Thai basil chicken

You guests will think you have been slaving away in the kitchen all day, but this Thai basil chicken just takes half an hour to rustle up! It’s also healthy and low fat so ideal if your guests are conscious of watching their waistlines.

Grilled peaches couscous with glazed pork chops

Brilliant buffet food is an art. But we have you covered with this delicious dish. It could either be served in portions, or on a big buffet platter. The great thing is the couscous is delicious hot or cold so can be easily prepared ahead of time. Get the recipe: Grilled peaches couscous with glazed pork chops

One pot chicken with wine

This One pot chicken with wine saves on the washing up, which we think is a blessing after a party. It’s similar to a Coq au Van, but instead of red we use white wine in this dish. It makes it lighter and more appropriate for a summers meal. Serve with seasonal potatoes or mash to soak up the rich tasty jus.

Mushroom truffle sauce with chicken and cheesy polenta

Classy comfort food. This dish would be at home on the menu or a fancy gastro pub. Mushroom truffle sauce with chicken and cheesy polenta is delicious all year round. It’s worth buying a good quality truffle oil to make this dish extra special.

Chargrilled Steak with Basil Orecchiette

Chargrilled steak gets a fresh twist with basil orecchiette in this simple but delicious recipe that would work so well al fresco. Make it on the barbecue or on a griddle pan and the whole meal will be ready in just 25 minutes.See the steak with basil orecchiette recipe.

Salmon with a Parmesan and Fennel Crust

Make salmon with parmesan and feel crust (pictured) for a dinner party main course that brings interesting flavours but is still ready in 25 minutres.

Duck Confit With Pancetta Lentils

This smart duck dinner party main course workd so well with lentils dotted with salty pancetta. It's beautifully slow cooked over 4 hours, but so worth the effort.See the duck confit with pancetta lentils recipe.

Coffee Panna Cotta with Honeyed Pecans

This impressive coffee panna cotta recipe has a flavour pairing that really works and is ready in just 25 minutes.

White Chocolate, Lime And Passion Fruit Cheesecake

This no bake white chocolate cheesecake zings with tropical fruit for a refreshing end to your dinner party.See the white chocolate, lime and passion fruit cheesecake recipe.

Salmon En Croute

It's easier than you might think to make this simple salmon en croute recipe stuffed with spinach and it's an extra special main course to share with friends.

Sardine Spaghetti with Lemon and Black Pepper Crumb

This easy Mediterranean recipe is so simple to make using tinned sardines and finished with a zesty, peppery crumb, plus it can be easily scaled up for however many guests you have. This is perfect for a laidback dinner party.See the sardine spaghetti with lemon and black pepper crumb recipe.

Beef Stroganoff

Creamy and fragrant, beef stroganoff is a retro favourite that's ready in just 30 minutes.See the beef stroganoff recipe.

Venison Steaks With Redcurrant Sauce

Make easy venison steaks with a simple redcurrant sauce for a smart dinner party supper that you won't beliebe is readyin 10 minutes.

Pork Tenderloin with Mushrooms, Cream and Cider

Pork tenderloin in creamy mushroom and cider sauce makes an easy but impressive dinner party recipe to share with friends.

Slow-Roasted Pork Belly

Make this slow-roasted pork belly with garlic and sage recipe as an easy but impressive main course.

Kale Pesto and Curd Cheese Crostini

Quick and easy kale pesto and curd cheese crostini are so simple to make, but work perfectly with some pre-dinner drinks.See the kale pesto and curd cheese crostini recipe.

Garlic Prawns with Romesco Sauce

This garlic prawns with Romesco sauce recipe is made with an easy blitz-and-serve sauce and ready in just 15 minutes.

Passion Fruit Cheesecake

This passion fruit cheesecake is beautifully light and fresh, made with cream cheese and creme fraiche and fresh fruit in the mix.See the passion fruit cheesecake recipe.

Pot-Roast Guinea Fowl

Try this easy pot-roast as an interesting alternative to chicken. It pretty much cooks itself so you can relax.See the pot-roast guinea fowl recipe.

Mediterranean Stuffed Squid

Mediterranean stuffed squid is stuffed with pork and capers and slow cooked in a rich puutanesca sauce made with tomatoes and olives. It takes 2 hours to cook, but is a real treat.See the Mediterranean stuffed squid recipe.

Cajun Salmon Wraps with Salad

Give your dinner party a more laidback feel with DIY wraps that guests can help themselves to. The spicy salmon and zesty salads take this recipe up a notch.See the Cajun salmon wraps with salad recipe.

Fennel and Lobster Salad with Pomegranate

The clean flavours of fennel and pomegranate contrast beautifully with luxurious lobster in this easy, but impressive, fennel and lobster salad with pomegranate recipe.

Strawberry Meringue Tower

Make a tower of meringue kisses with fresh cream and strawberries as the perfect end to your dinner party. It's so worth the extra effort.See the strawberry meringue tower recipe.

Salmon and Roasted Vegetables in Filo

This salmon and roasted vegetables in filo recipe is a real showstopper. Great for a large lunch gathering, but not over-fiddly and easily prepared ahead.

Dairy Free Mango and Passion Fruit Sundae

This incredible 'sundae' is so creay and delicious but made with coconut yogurt instead of dairy, which works so well with tropical flavours. Plus, it's ready in just 5 minutes!See the dairy free mango and passion fruit sundae recipe.

Lamb Cutlets with Pomegranate and Mint

Lamb cutlets with pomegranate molasses, fresh pomegranate and mint are so easy to make, bringing interesting flavours to your dinner party. Serve as part of mezze for a casual sharing dinner.See the lamb cutlets with pomegranate and mint recipe.

Moules Marinières with Homemade Oven Chips

Turn your kitchen into a cafe bistro and serve your guests a mountain of moules marinere and treat them to the best homemade chips to soak up the mouthwatering white wine sauce.Find more ways to cook mussels here

Marsala and Mascarpone Syllabub

An easier version of a zabaglione, this marsala and mascarpone syllabub recipe is an almost instant, lighter way to end a meal.

Tikka Roast Chicken

This tikka roast chicken recipe will make a delicious dinner party centrrepiece with a spicy twist.

Pork Tenderloin with Onion Salad

Sticky, spicy and citrussy with a fresh kick from the pomegranate - this pork recipe is bound to become a favourite.

Chocolate and Raspberry Pie

A creamy chocolate filling sits on tart raspberries over a crumbly biscuit base in this delicious dessert recipe.

Parma-Wrapped Beef Topside with Orzo Salad

This parma-wrapped beef topside with orzo salad makes a stunning yet surprisingly good-value roast.You can vary the size of the beef depending on how many you are seving.

Peach and Passion Fruit Meringue Trifle

The crunch of meringue with the velvety texture of whipped cream and custard - this peach and passion fruit meringue trifle is made in minutes and in heaven!

Chilled Avocado, Cucumber, Lime and Watercress Soup

During warmer months a chilled soup makes the perfect starter to your dinner party. This avocado, cucumber, lime and watercress soup recipe can be served hot or cold which means you can cater for all tastes around the table. Try another of our soup recipes here

Red Onion Tarte Tatin

Spoil your veggie guests with this luxurious, rich red onion tarte tatin.

Lemon Posset with Fennel Biscotti

Tom Kerridge's lemon posset with fennel biscotti is so easy tomake and sets very quickly, plus the fragrant biscotti make it special enough for a dinner party.See the lemon posset recipe.

Strawberry and Rhubarb Fool

If you know one of your guests is watching their waistline then go lighter for dessert with half fat cream in this delicious fruity fool. Who doesn't adore rhubarb?Looking for an alternative rhubarb recipe? Find more here

Deep Trout Fishcakes

Want to give your get-together that cheffy, bistro-style feel? Show you've really made an effort with these delicious trout fishcakes. The shallot and lemon butter sauce really gives this recipe the special treatment.

Persian Stuffed Lamb with Saffron Potatoes

Give the traditional roast a twist with this Persian style stuffed lamb dish. Stuffing the leg makes the meat go much further and it's very simple to carve.

Gratin Dauphinoise

The side dishes at your dinner party are just as important as the main event! This is the ultimate accompaniment to lamb, steak or even a simple roast chicken - find our creamy gratin dauphinoise recipe here.

Solo Rhubarb and Orange Crumbles

You really can't go wrong with rhubarb crumble as the perfect end to a delicious meal. Make your crumble extra special by combining this classic with orange zest and serving it in individual pots or ramekins. Find more crumble recipes here

Shaved Beetroot, Radish and Grapefruit Salad

What a colourful way to kick off your dinner party! The beetroots in this salad are served raw to add earthiness and crispness. The radishes add a firey contrast against the sweet grapefruit and nutty tahini.

Honeyed Chicken with Braised Chicory

Clever presentation and a couple of surprising ingredients make this honeyed chicken with braised chicory recipe a dinner party essential.

Dahl Fritters with Minty Peas

If your dinner party has an Indian food theme then these dahl fritters with minty peas are a fab way to kick off your meal.

Strawberry Cheesecake

This impressive strawberry cheesecake is a fantastic way to use fresh fruit in season and takes just 20 minutes to prepare.See the strawberry cheesecake recipe.

Red Chicory, Walnut and Goats' Cheese Salad

A beautiful red chicory, walnut and goats' cheese salad recipe to kick off a summer meal with friends, this is very simple to put together.

Serrano-Wrapped Beef Fillet with Mushrooms

Save yourself stress - this scrumptious serrano-wrapped beef fillet recipe can be prepared ahead.

Chocolate and Honeycomb Torte

This striking chocolate torte, crowned with honeycomb and glossy ganache, is the perfect end to special occasion dinner parties.

Buffalo Mozzarella with Crispy Serrano Ham and Roasted Peppers

This buffalo mozzarella with crispy Serrano ham and roasted peppers recipe is so quick and easy to make, just ensure you use real buffalo mozzarella, which is soft and squidgy with far more flavour, albeit delicate, rather than a cheaper, rubbery one.

Espresso Mousse with Frangelico Cream

Be warned - this Italian espresso mousse is dangerously moreish!

Classic Lemon Tart

This classic lemon tart recipe is really straightforward and everyone will love the refreshing flavour.

Prawn Avocado Mango Salad

This prawn, avocado and mango salad is just lightly spiced, not hot, and would also make a delicious lunch with some crusty bread.Looking for more recipes for entertaining? Take a look at our dinner party recipe collection, including starters, mains and desserts.

The upcoming Bank Holiday is a time to relax with family, gorge on chocolate - and try your hand at some tasty Easter recipes.

Easter Sunday falls on 1 April this year, and we've got a host of delicious Easter food ideas to ensure you feel delightfully full come Easter Monday.

Whether you're planning a quiet one with your nearest and dearest or will be throwing open your doors and entertaining friends, we've got you covered to ensure you're the Easter host with the most.

When it comes to meat, lamb is synonymous with this time of year, and we've got a choice of Easter roast lamb recipes for you to choose from, with some pork recipes thrown in for good measure.

If you want something a little bit different but equally delicious, consider our mushroom, goats' cheese and tarragon tartlets, our chicken and mushroom gratin, or our wild mushroom and spinach lasagne - perfect for vegetarians.

MORE:Easy Easter ideas to decorate your home this Bank Holiday weekend

And for the all important final course, check out our selection of Easter desserts - from an Easter sponge to a rich chocolate cheesecake.

See all these and more Easter recipes ideas by scrolling through the slides below...

Roast Leg of Lamb with Baharat and Root Vegetables

Make a spiced version of classic roast lamb with this roast leg of lamb recipe with baharat and root veg.See the roast leg of lamb with baharat and root veg recipe.

Roast Leg of Lamb with Baharat and Root Vegetables

Make a spiced version of classic roast lamb with this roast leg of lamb recipe with baharat and root veg.See the roast leg of lamb with baharat and root veg recipe.

Easter Celebration Cake

Slow Roasted Lamb Shoulder

If you've never tried a slow roasted lamb shoulder recipe, now is the perfect time to try it. With more fat marbling than found in a leg joint, this is the ideal cut for slow roasting or braising. It costs around half the cost of a leg of lamb too. The lamb can be half cooked the day before, then finished on the day.

Gluten Free Easter Sponge Cake

Our gluten free Easter sponge cake is easy but impressive and means that everyone can enjoy a slice.See the gluten free Easter sponge cake recipe.

Mozzarella, Anchovies and Olives on Sourdough

Keep you Easter starter light but full of flavour with a simple recipe like this buffalo mozzarella, anchovy and olive crostini recipe that works as a start or with welcome drinks.See the mozzarella, anchovies and olivers on sourdough recipe.

Gruyere Bacon and Leek Tart

This gruyere bacon and leek tart recipe is the real deal, with a gorgeous filling enriched with double cream a truly decadent lunch.

Chocolateand Hazelnut Cheesecake

Boy is this chocolate, hazelnut and Amarula cheesecake recipe rich! This is the perfect ending to a Easter lunch for chocolate lovers everywhere.

Stilton and Celery Soup

This Stilton and Celery Soup Recipe works brilliantly with any blue cheese or even a mixture and it tastes perfect with some good, crusty bread. Click here for more recipes

Mushroom, Goats' Cheese and Tarragon Tartlets

Mushroom, goats' cheese and tarragon tartlets are a perfect dinner party recipe if you are entertaining vegetarians. Just check beforehand with guests, as some vegetarians will only eat vegetarian goats' cheese.

Marinated Roast Lamb

This is a great marinated roast lamb recipe which is better if you marinate the lamb overnight the day before.

Roast Loin of Pork with Crackling and Spicy Pear

This roast loin of pork with crackling and spicy pear recipe is a traditional British Sunday roast recipe with delicious crisp crackling. Take the pork out to rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Stuffed Turkey Breast with Wild Mushroom and Madeira

Stuffing a whole breast is a great option for feeding a crowd - it cooks beautifully and is so easy to carve, plus any leftovers make a great sandwich. Serve this Stuffed Turkey Breast with Wild Mushroom and Madeira Recipe with Steamed spring greens and roast potatoes.

Herbed Loin of Lamb with Mint Sauce Recipe

A very smart recipe for a Sunday lunch that takes surprisingly little effort. Serve this Herbed Loin of Lamb with Mint Sauce Recipe with Tenderstem broccoli and steamed new potatoes.Click here for more recipes

Wild mushroom and spinach lasagne recipe

If you're catering for veggies this Easter holiday, try this sumptuous wild mushroom and spinach lasagne recipe - we guarantee your guests will love it.Click here for more recipes

Chicken and Mustard Gratin Recipe

This is comfort food at its very best - richly flavoured and a doddle to make. Serve this Chicken and Mustard Gratin Recipe with a salad of chicory leaves drizzled with a little lemon juice, to counterbalance the richness of the gratin. Serve with a salad of chicory leaves drizzled with a little lemon juice, to counterbalance the richness of the gratin.Click here for more recipes

Pork Tenderloin with Apples and Cider Vinegar Recipe

A pork recipe with a fruity twist. Serve this Pork Tenderloin with Apples and Cider Vinegar Recipe with buttery tagliatelle and peas.Click here for more recipes

Gorgeous girls fairycakes

Pear and Almond Tart Recipe

A perfect way to end a meal, this is light enough not to leave you feeling too full. Serve the Pear and Almond Tart Recipe warm, or allow it to cool to room temperature and serve with crème fraîche. It can be served the day after, when it will become chewier, but no less delicious. Keep it in an airtight container.Click here for more recipes

If you're entertaining this weekend and one of your guests is vegetarian, why not try making the whole meal veggie friendly with these delicious vegetarian friendly dinner party dishes.

If you're entertaining this weekend and one of your guests is vegetarian, why not try making the whole meal veggie with these delicious vegetarian friendly dinner party dishes. We've got so many different options to choose from that you won't even miss the meat.

Vegetarian starters couldn't be easier to whip up with our tasty recipes, whether you want individual things like our Mushroom, Goat's Cheese and Tarragon Tartlets to serve up to your guests, delicious soups or a really tasty salad like our Fennel and Feta Orange Salad, there are plenty of veggie based starters to choose from.

Curry makes a great vegetarian dish as it's full of spice and flavour and no two curries will taste the same. Try our aubergine and coconut curry, which is lovely and filling thanks to the meaty aubergine and full-fat coconut milk. With red onions, ground almonds and curry powder, this dish is creamy and full of flavour

Another delicious curry recipe to try for your veggie friends is our Spinach and Paneer Curry, which is given a great amount of spice thanks to the green chillies, turmeric and cayenne powder. Ready in less than an hour, it's a great dish to fill up a hungry crowd in a hurry.

If you want to try a veggie twist on another classic recipe, try our delicious Vegetarian Moussaka for something warm and comforting. If it's a burger you're after, our Aubergine Burgers are full of flavour and feel really meaty thanks to the use of this substantial veg.

Risotto also makes a simple but delicious vegetarian dinner party dish and we've got plenty to choose from. For something really different try our Pearl Barley and Mushroom Risotto, it's a tasty and filling dish that's ready in a flash but feels really different to the norm.

Get the recipe:Aubergine and Coconut Curry

Vegetarian Dinner Party Starter: Fennel, Feta and Orange Salad

What makes a better starter than a deliciously light salad? Particularly when it's full of the zingy flavours of orange and creamy feta. This recipe is just the right kind of dish to get your appetite going without filling you up before your main. This dish is really easy to make ahead and could even double up as a side dish too, it's so versatile. Get the recipe: Fennel, Feta Orange Salad

Vegetarian Dinner Party Starter: Polenta, Tomato and Goats' Cheese Tartlets

Polenta, tomato and goats' cheese tartlets transform simple polenta into something magical, so try it for your next dinner party to really impress any vegetarians you're entertaining. Ready in just an hour, this dish serves four people. Get the recipe: Polenta, Tomato and Goats' Cheese Tartlets

Vegetarian Dinner Party Starter: Bruschetta with Baked Borlotti Beans and Roasted Peppers

Bruschetta is full of lovely Mediterranean flavours and this delicious version is even better as it's like a posh Italian version of beans on toast. Super filling and bursting with flavour, your guests will love this versatile dish.Get the recipe: Bruschetta with Baked Borlotti Beans and Roasted Peppers

Vegetarian Dinner Party Starter: Mushroom, Goat's Cheese and Tarragon Tartlets

Mushrooms and goat's cheese go so well together, and these tartlets with tarragon are super tasty.Ready in a flash, these tasty tarts are ready in no time and will go down really well with guests.  Get the recipe: Mushroom, Goat's Cheese and Tarragon Tartlets

Vegetarian Dinner Party Starter: Falafel with Houmous and Grains

A great idea if you're after something to share with your veggie friends for your next dinner party. We love an informal sharing starter and these little cakes look great served up on a board in the middle of the table for everyone to dig into. Hummus and falafel are full of chickpeas, which aren't just tasty, but really good for you too.Get the recipe: Falafel with Houmous and Grains

Vegetarian Dinner Party Starter: Super Green Soup

A super soup for a super dinner party - this delicious green dish is full of flavour and really lives up to its name with a whole host of vegetables, including courgette, kale and brocolli. It takes just 30 minutes to whip up and serves six, so it's a great one for a crowd. Get the recipe: Super Green Soup

Vegetarian Dinner Party Main: Spinach and Paneer Curry

For a veggie dish that's super tasty, you can't go wrong with a curry and this version with paneer cheese and spinach is a great one to try to please any vegetarian guests.Serve it up with Indian breads for a really filling dish everyone will love. Get the recipe: Spinach and Paneer Curry

Vegetarian Dinner Party Main: Vegetarian Moussaka

If you love Moussaka, you'll just love this veggie version - and any vegetarian dinner party guests will love it too. Meaty aubergines give this dish a great base and while it takes a little while to prepare, it's really worth the wait. Get the recipe: Vegetarian Moussaka

Vegetarian Dinner Party Main: Aubergine Burger

If you love a good burger, you can't go wrong with this delicious veggie recipe. A slice of goat's cheese and a wedge of tomato really tops off this burger dish - whether you prepare just one to go alongside meat burgers for the veggies in the party, or do them for everyone - these are sure to be a winner. Get the recipe: Aubergine Burger

Vegetarian Dinner Party Main: Aubergine Parmigiana

Aubergine parmigiana is one of those classic Italian recipes that everyone will love and is great to fill up any vegetarians you might be entertaining. Rich with a tomato sauce and lots of cheese it's comforting, warming and absolutely delicious. Serve it up with garlic bread and a big green salad for a delicious main meal.Get the recipe: Aubergine Parmigiana

Vegetarian Dinner Party Main: Butternut And Orzo Risotto

Risotto is such a great dish to try at a dinner party because it will fill up all your guests and leave them really satisfied.This version uses butternut squash and orzo rather than your usual risotto rice for something a little different. Get the recipe: Butternut And Orzo Risotto

Vegetarian Dinner Party Main: Pearl Barley and Mushroom Risotto

Another great risotto dish that's super good for you and feeds a crowd with ease is this pearl barley version.

Vegetarian Dinner Party Main: Squash and Ricotta Canelloni

Rich and delicious, this cheesy pasta dish is a great crowd pleaser that's perfect for when you're entertaining vegetarians.As it serves eight, it's the perfect way to feed a crowd too and goes perfectly with a crisp salad and some crusty bread. Get the recipe: Squash and Ricotta Canelloni

Vegetarian Dinner Party Main: Nut Roast

This delicious meat free alternative to a roast dinner is perfect if you're entertaining vegetarians, as it's full of great tasting nuts, seeds and plenty of garlic. This great veggie dish is served up with a lovely tomato sauce too, so you don't need to think about any extras other than your usual sides. Get the recipe: Nut Roast

Vegetarian Dinner Party Main: Camembert Tart

This Camembert tart oozes delicious melted cheese as soon as you cut into it and is the perfect dish to serve to vegetarians at your next dinner party. The centre is a whole baked Camembert, and the rest of it is made from pastry and quiche filling, which makes for a lovely, rich combination.Get the recipe: Camembert Tart

Vegetarian Dinner Party Dessert: Lemon and Prosecco Sorbet

A delicious and light way to finish off your veggie dinner party, this dessert option is a great way to serve up something tasty with just a hint of booze too.And what's more, this recipe is ready in just 15 minutes. Get the recipe: Lemon and Prosecco Sorbet

Vegetarian Dinner Party Dessert: Avocado Chocolate Mousse

What better time to test out a delicious veggie dessert recipe than when you're entertaining vegetarians?This avocado chocolate mousse is super healthy and literally takes minute to whip up, so it's a win win. Get the recipe: Avocado Chocolate Mousse

Vegetarian Dinner Party Dessert: Classic Lemon Tart

Who doesn't love a classic lemon tart? The perfect way to finish off your veggie dinner party, this pud is ready in a couple of hours but super easy to make.It serves eight too, so you'll know there's some there for anyone that wants seconds!Get the recipe: Classic Lemon Tart

Vegetarian Dinner Party Drink: G & Tea

A delicious cocktail treat to serve up to your guests at the end of your meal - this drink is made with green tea syrup. As with any G&T, you can garnish this drink however you like to suit the mood of your dinner party. Get the recipe: G & Tea

Vegetarian Dinner Party Drink: Aperol spritz

A great summer drink that's perfect to serve to your guests at your next dinner party - Aperol is all the rage at the moment. This easy drink is made with Aperol aperitif and Prosecco, then topped with soda water.Get the recipe: Aperol spritz

If you’re throwing a dinner party and want an extra special touch, why not start your evening off with this really easy canapé recipe? Full of exquisite Mediterranean flavours, this dish is the perfect way to kick of any feast. With sun-blushed tomatoes, Manchego cheese, capers and anchovies, there’s a whole host of different flavours and textures to get everyone’s taste buds going. What’s more, this fabulous dish only takes 15 minutes to whip up.

HOW TO MAKE EASY CROSTINI CANAPES

Ingredients

• 1 baguette or ciabatta, thinly sliced
• a drizzle of oil

For the sun-blushed tomato and almond topping

:

• 200g sun-blushed tomatoes, finely chopped
• 100g toasted almonds
• 1 small handful flat-leaf parsley
• 50g grated Manchego cheese
• 3-4tbsp olive oil
• lemon juice

For the salsa verde and mint topping

:

• 1 large handful parsley and mint leaves
• 85g capers, drained and rinsed
• 4 anchovy fillets
• 2tbsp red wine vinegar
• 5-6tbsp olive oil

Method

1. To make the crostini, drizzle a little oil over a thinly sliced baguette or ciabatta then grill until golden and crisp.
2. For the tomato topping, mix the tomatoes and almonds with a small handful of flat-leaf parsley. Stir through the Manchego cheese and 3-4tbsp olive oil with a squeeze of lemon juice. Season to taste. You can put all this in the food processor, but it looks prettier if you chop it by hand. Use a spoon to layer the topping on the crostini.
3. For the salsa verde topping, whizz the parsley and mint leaves with the capers, anchovy fillets, red wine vinegar and olive oil, until you have a thick paste. Serve on the crostini.

Get organised and prepare ahead to ensure that everything will run efficiently on Christmas Day. Follow our step-by-step guide to planning and hosting a fuss-free feast, including a time-plan for cooking turkey and the trimmings and how much food to order to serve 8 with enough leftovers for Boxing Day, but no more.

Here, woman&home's Food Director Jane Curran shares her countdown to Christmas lunch and how she makes cooking Christmas lunch as simple as possible.

Super simple Christmas countdown

To serve lunch by 2.15pm, with a 3.5kg turkey, follow this simple time plan.

• 9am Remove the turkey from the fridge. The bird should be prepared, weighed and ready.
• 10.30am Heat the oven to 180C, gas 4.
• 11am Put the turkey in the oven. Now you can prep the veg.
• 12.45pm If you're having a Christmas pudding, put it on to steam. Top it up regularly with hot water.
• 1pm Put the potatoes in the oven (they'll take around 1 hour).
• 1.20pm Put the stuffing in the oven (it'll take around 45 minutes).
• 1.30pm Take the turkey out of the oven, cover with foil and leave in a warm place. Whack up the oven temperature to 200C, gas 6. Transfer the potatoes to the top shelf. Put the parsnips and chipolatas in (they'll take around 30 minutes). Have sprouts and carrots ready to cook, and bread sauce and red cabbage ready to reheat. Make the gravy.
• 2pm Once everything is out of the oven, put the serving dishes and plates in to warm. Warm a jug for the gravy. Transfer the turkey to a large chopping board or carving dish. Enlist helpers to carve, dish up and wash up - so you have space in the kitchen!

Ready to get stuck in to some Christmas menu planning? Find all our Christmas recipes in one place, in our Christmas recipe collection.

The Basics

Timings will vary depending on when you want to serve lunch and how many guests you have. There are a few bits and bobs we've learned over the years, which help all go smoothly. After all, in magazine world, we cook Christmas lunch three times a year!

1. Check your tins

Check you have the right size roasting tin for the turkey you're going to order. If you've bought a new one, check it fits happily in your oven.

2. Allow more time

Allow more oven time that you initially calculate. There is the problem of the National Grid dipping and family and friends opening the oven to have a look at "the bird". Keep it closed!

3. Save fridge space

It's harder to keep a full fridge cold, so think about storing food in Ziplock bags rather than bowls. Leave drinks outside at the back door. You can always put them in a bucket of ice outside, in the unlikely event the day is mild.

4. First, lay the table

Lay the table (better still, delegate!) after breakfast, so another job can be ticked off. Sort out your serving dishes and plates. They can always sit out of the way on the dining table while you cook.

5. Keep your kitchen clear

Start cooking in a clean and tidy kitchen and enlist help to keep it cleared as you cook. It is much more calming and easier to work in a clear kitchen.

Use Your Freezer

There are plenty of dishes that will freeze, saving you a huge amount of time and hassle on the day. Try these:

* Bread sauce * Cranberry sauce * Stuffing * Red cabbage * Rum or brandy sauce (for the pudding) * Turkey stock

To make ahead turkey gravy, buy a couple of turkey legs beforehand, which are well-priced. Make as you would a chicken stock, with carrot, onion, celery, parsley, bay leaves and peppercorns. Then strain, add white wine or dry sherry and reduce. Defrost on Christmas Eve, then add the juices from your cooked turkey. It saves a lot of time and space. The giblets can always be roasted for the four-legged members of the family - they'll go down a storm!

Is the freezer your friend? Find out how to make the most of it with 16 things everyone should have in their freezer.

Buy The Right Quantities

A bit of savvy shopping without over-ordering will mean you avoid chucking loads in the bin by 27 December. Vegetable quantities are tricky - some families hate sprouts, and in our house we love leftover roast potatoes to eat cold.

Here's a guide to what you'll need to serve 8 people:

* A 3.5kg turkey will happily feed 8 people, with sufficient leftovers for a sandwich on Boxing Day. * 1.8kg potatoes for roasting (King Edward or Maris Piper, or other fluffy spuds work best). * 900g Brussels sprouts * 1.3kg parsnips * 900g red cabbage

Cooking Turkey

Specialists will give you their own cooking times for a roast turkey, but you can work out the cooking time using the British Turkey calculator - you just need to enter the weight of your bird.

To help prevent the turkey breast drying out, cook the turkey breast-side down on a trivet. Then turn it up the right way for the last 30 minutes to brown. This way, it won't need to be covered with foil, as the fat deposits on the back of the bird will permeate through, and the fat will gently crisp.

SaveSave

As the festive season approaches, are you looking for some vegetarian entertaining inspiration? If you are, then you're in luck! The team behind woman&home are publishing this special one shot dedicated to vegetarian cooking with 115 meat-free recipes including gluten-free, vegan and diary-free dishes.

Priced at £5.99, the 100-page issue is packed with inspiration to provide cooking enthusiasts with everything they need to know to entertain for every occasion from a casual weekend lunch to a special evening meal.

Plus, as Christmas approaches, there's a 22-page bonus section on festive feasts with menus everyone can enjoy. As well as exclusive recipes from the woman&home team, there’s dishes from top chefs including Mary Berry, Rick Stein, Paul Hollywood, James Martin, Gizzi Erskine and Yotam Ottolenghi.

Here's a little look into what you can find in our Vegetarian Entertaining mag…

1) Soups and starters

We've got you covered for fab vegetarian recipes to get your dinner party off to a great start - and what's even better is that these recipes work just as well for lunch! Try a soya bean, spinach and pea soup for a twist on a classic, or an easy tikka butternut soup that's also gluten and dairy free! A roasted squash with ricotta and lemon is a smart starter that's ready in under an hour and James Martin's salt baked beetroot is something extra special.

2) Food for friends

There's nothing better than a one-potrecipe when you're expecting a crowd. They're easy to make and there's less washing up - bonus! You'd be surprised how many veggie options there are, from beetroot balls with Spanish-style sauce, to spicy lentil and sweet potato stew and bean and root veg pot. These one-pots are a fab way to get loads of seasonal veg into one recipe.

3) Festive feasts

If you're looking for vegetarian recipes to inspire you over the festive period, look no further. A melting-middle savoury cheesecake is such a treat and really pushes the boat out in terms of creativity and goes really nicely with a sweet chutney. A sweet potato, cheese and pecan gratin is ideal for sharing, and Peter Gordon's crumbled Camembert, apple and mango salad is so delicate.

4) Party food to share

Elegant little nibbles like Mexican roasted sweet potato bites are ideal for vegetarian guests at your drinks party, as are tempura courgette with lemon mayonnaise - they're easy to dip and pass around! Or, vegan baby roast potatoes with herb salt are so easy to make and a real party food hit.

5) The best of baking

Our chocolate, hazelnut and salted caramel cake is a real showstopper, with its caramel drip effect and layers of chocolate and hazelnut sponge. Dishing this up or a beetroot cake with chocolate ganache is such a treat for guests and the perfect way to finish off a wonderful vegetarian dinner!

Expect plenty more vegetarian recipes, from starters and canapés to both elaborate and simple mains and so many desserts.

SaveSaveSaveSaveSave

If you're looking for a wedding cake with a twist, you've come to the right place. Pretty, floral, traditional wedding cakes are all well and good, but if you want something that points to a more exuberant, edgy couple, you might want to choose a centrepiece that's a little more unique.

Guests love seeing unique wedding cakes and doing something a bit different will make sure they remember your day as being truly one of a kind. The cakes we've rounded up are perfect for doubling up as pudding, too, as most of them are made up of multiple miniatures which are easy for guests to help themselves to.

The other great thing? Most unique wedding cakes are significantly cheaper than your standard fare as they don't require all the baking of traditional fruit cake layers and delicate icing.

Scroll down to see which of these unique wedding cakes is your favourite, and if you can't decide, well, who said you could only have one?

Multiple Miniatures Wedding Cake

[instagram]

Whether it's doughnuts, macaroons, profiteroles, or even cookies you love; arrange them in a pattern, balance them on a cake stand, and form a wedding cake of yummy miniatures. This is definitely a cheaper alternative to elaborate styles exhibited by many wedding cake, and provides a chance to show off and share your favourite sweet treats. Let's just hope you can agree with your new hubby on the choice of miniatures!

Pork Pie Wedding Cake

[instagram]

[/instagram] If sweets aren't your bag, this savoury pie has got your back. Personalise with a special mould, or decorate with fruits and vegetables of your choice to create a stunning centrepiece that will double up as you evening buffet. And if you don't get through it all on the big day there really is nothing better for a 'hazy' head the next day than a big ol' slice of pie.

Cheese Wedding Cake

[instagram]

No, we don't mean a soft and creamy cheesecake; we mean a cake of cheese. Gouda, Camembert, Edam, Shropshire Blue - if you can stack it, you can slice it (as a wedding cake). This gorgeous tower of the finest fromages in the land makes a delicious final course for family and friends. Just don't count on it smelling of roses.

Pancake Wedding Cake

[instagram]

Many of us will have too many butterflies in our stomachs to make room for breakfast on our wedding days, but this cake ensures that you don't miss the most important meal of the day (albeit a slightly later time of consumption), whilst providing an alternative, fun, and uniquely customised cake for your guests. If you're feeling particularly virtuous you could pile on fresh fruit and flowers to provide a healthy twist (as if you needed any more excuses).

Cornflake Wedding Cake

[instagram]

In a similar vein to the pancake cake, this cornflake cake refuses to leave cereal behind at the breakfast table. Just because you're getting married doesn't mean you can't release your inner child and indulge in a favourite from your youth. It's also almost guaranteed to put a smile on your guests' faces.

Jelly Bean Wedding Cake

[instagram]

Paint the rainbow with a Jelly Bean wedding cake. This explosion of colour provides a fantastic contrast against a white wedding dress, and will raise happy childhood memories for all involved. Nearby dentists would probably encourage you to have some sort of cake underneath the jellybeans, however.

Ice cream Sandwich Wedding Cake

[instagram]

Summer wedding? Look no further for the ultimate seasonal cake. Fill giant cookies with huge slices of ice cream to create the latest in trendy dessert eating - the ice cream sandwich. You can pick all your favourite flavours and all guests, big and little, will love having a slice for dessert. Just make sure there's room at your venue to refrigerate until the last moment!

Biscuit Wedding Cake

[Instagram]

There's something just so satisfying about a biscuit, and this unique wedding cake should see off any blood sugar dips well into the evening. Favourites include Oreos and Custard Creams but the world is your oyster, this is your day, and you shall have whatever biscuit you choose!

Doughnut Wedding Cake

[instagram]

Who wouldn't want a pile of pillowy soft deep fried dough balls as a unique alternative to a wedding cake? We can't think of anyone. This display can be made to look even prettier with pastel icing, delicate flowers and a few bits of summer fruit.

Meringue Wedding Cake

[instagram]

Meringues have had a real makeover of late, with beautifully coloured and flavoured options bursting onto the (Instagram) scene. You could make a cake entirely from meringues to serve with fresh cream and juicy fruit for dessert or you could cover a traditional cake in meringues if you want the best of both worlds.

Picnic food ideas that will work for an outdoor summer gathering, so pack your basket with our favourite recipes, from tarts and quiches and salads to desserts

Picnic food is perfect for sharing with good company on a hot day. These picnic food ideas will help you plan a portable feast at short notice. Think picnic loaf, quiche and a potato salad to share, followed by a picnic-appropriate dessert that will still look its best by time you eat it.

Aside from good weather, every good picnic needs a good selection of dishes in order to be a success. Ideally, you should choose a few recipes that are good for sharing, not too messy and easy to transport. Potato salads and pasta salads are great for this kind of occasion as not only are they a picnic staple, but they're also filling and so easy to make.

For something a little different, try our Swedish surprise pasta salad; the pickled herring is a great source of protein and the flavours that come together are really unique. If you want to stick to a classic recipe, then our pesto potato salad is ideal as our take on a traditional salad.

A bit like a quiche but filled with rich custard and plenty of filling this leek and goats' cheese picnic loaf recipe will steal the show. It's a bit of a cheat's recipe, as you will need to buy the loaf and simply scoop out the soft inside and fill it instead with the leek and cheese mix but it's ideal as you'll probably be preparing several different dishes to bring, and this is a great time-saver.

Don't forget drinks! Pack up wine or beers in a cooler, or make your own non-alcoholic summer drink. Homemade elderflower cordial topped up with sparkling water or tonic and finished with a pretty straw always looks the part.

Let your picnic shine this weekend with some of our great picnic recipes.

Click through for more picnic recipes...

Asparagus And Pesto Tarts

This little asparagus and pesto tarts recipe will be on your favourite list in no time! Perfect for packing up for a lunchtime picnic.

Roasted Courgette And Tomato Tart With Goats' Cheese

Roasting the courgettes first prevents the filling of this roasted courgette and tomato tart with goats' cheese recipe becoming watery. If you don't like goats' cheese then you can replace it with ricotta or grated gruyere.

Chilli And Butternut Squash Quesadillas

A Mexican favourite of flour tortillas sandwiched together with a savoury cheese and vegetables mix. Try making this chilli and butternut squash quesadillas recipe for your next picnic.

American Dream Pasta Salad

Try this really original American dream pasta salad recipe for a bit of a change at your summer picnic!

Elderflower Cordial

Make this when elderflower is in season in May and June, then take a small bottle to every picnic and top up with sparkling water, add to a G&T or prosecco.See the elderflower cordial recipe.

Red Pepper And Feta Bruschetta

Everyone loves bruschetta! This red pepper and feta bruschetta recipe is a little bit of Italy, with a splash of Greek flavour.

Sausage And Pepper Kebabs

This delicious sausage and pepper kebab recipe is full of summer flavours, making it perfect for a weekend picnic.

Japanese Yuzu And Tofu Cheesecake

Cheesecakes you can have on the go, this yuzu and tofu cheesecake recipe is an oriental twist on the tradition pudding.

Tomato, Mozarella And Basil Sandwich

This tomato, mozarella and basil sandwich recipe takes a cheese and tomato sandwich to new heights!

Sticky Jamaican Jerk Chicken And Rice

Go for a bit of spice, with this delicious sticky Jamaican jerk chicken and rice recipe is perfect for alfresco dining.

Tandoori Chicken Flatbreads With Watermelon And Mint Salad

This tandoori chicken flatbreads with watermelon and mint salad recipe has a delicious flavour combination that works equally well hot or cold and makes a great salad if you want to go wheat-free.

Cherry And Almond Scones

Ready in the blink of an eye, this cherry and almond scones recipe is perfect to whip up for an impromptu picnic.

Strawberries And Cream Cupcake

Bake these gorgeous strawberries and cream cupcake recipe in your picnic pack-up and you'll be the envy of everyone with a picnic spread. The fruit purée in the icing gives a fab yogurty flavour and makes them seem less sinful!

Rum And Raisin Fudge

Treat everyone to some fudge at all your summer picnics. For the best results, use a sugar thermometer to make this classic rum and raisin fudge recipe.

Mackerel, Rocket And Potato Salad

We love this mackerel, rocket and potato salad it couldnt be easier and it's really delicious too.

Apricot And Vanilla Tartlets

Super easy and really quick this apricot & vanilla tartlets recipe is the perfect dessert for picnicking with lots of friends.

Coconut Coated Chicken Kebabs With Raitha

This sweet, spicy coconut coated chicken kebabs with raitha recipe makes a fantastic way to eat curry on a picnic!

Crunchy Pancetta And Hazelnut Salad With Warm Balsamic Dressing

Crispy pancetta, crunchy hazelnut nuts, juicy apple and chewy cherries give this crunchy pancetta and hazelnut salad with warm balsamic dressing recipe a satisfying texture.

Brown Rice Salad With Broad Beans, Artichokes And Dill

If you want to serve this brown rice salad with broad beans, artichokes and dill recipe on its own then why not crumble some salty feta cheese over the top. It is also very good with grilled smoked pancetta crumbled over the top.

Baby Potato Salad With Haddock And Creamy Gruyere Dressing

Everyone loves a potato salad recipe and this version will top them all. Rich, creamy and delicious this is a warm baby potato salad with haddock and creamy gruyere dressing recipe with attitude - and will make the perfect accompaniment at your summer picnics.

Cheese Straws And Maple, Sesame And Mustard Sausages

This quick and easy cheese straws and maple, sesame and mustard sausages recipe makes very moreish party nibbles or picnic food

Strawberries And Pimms

Can we ever eat enough strawberries in summer, when our home-grown fruit is at its fragrant best. This strawberries and pimms recipe combines the essence of an English summer with Pimm's and mint - the perfect combination at Wimbledon!

Grilled Chicken Salad With Courgettes And Cannellini Beans

This grilled chicken salad with courgettes and cannellini beans salad recipe is great for feeding a big gang of friends simply increase the ingredients - and you've got a hearty picnic salad.

Pesto Potato Salad

Simple is sometimes best, like this pesto potato salad. Everyone loves this classic recipe so why not knock it up for your next picnic!

Bacon And Onion Tart

This bacon and onion tart recipe is an Alsace version of a quiche Lorraine and benefits from being made with very few ingredients namely bacon, onion, cream, eggs and pastry - making it a quick and easy recipe idea to pack up in your picnic.

Almond, Polenta And Honey Cake

To add a really luscious touch to your picnic dessert, take a carton of single cream with you and pour generously over each slice of almond, polenta and honey cake recipe just before serving.

Oven-Dried Tomato And Basil Pasta Salad

Vegetarians and carnivores alike will love this oven-dried tomato and basil pasta salad.

Halloumi, Red Onion And Pepper Kebabs With Citrussy Pilaf

This great halloumi, red onion and pepper kebabs with citrussy pilaf recipe works as a side dish at a picnic and hits the spot every time!

Swedish Surprise Pasta Salad

If you fancy trying something new, then give this Swedish surprise pasta salad recipe a go, it's full of protein and is delightfully creamy.

An ice-cold G&T is one of our favourite ways to round off the week. Something is satisfying about the clink of ice, the fizz of tonic water and lime wedges on a Friday night. Of course, we love the classic - and you shouldn't mess with a classic. But then we got thinking; could we improve it? Not so much improve, but switch it up a bit, to keep things interesting. Another way to keep things interesting is by trying a different gin every day, these are the best gin advent calendars.

After a little research and a lot of experimentation (selfless, we know), we came up with 5 ways to take your G&T to the next level.

1. Try sloe gin

Swap your usual measure for a shot of sloe gin and top up with tonic and plenty of ice. It makes a sweeter drink in a pretty pink colour,

See the recipe: Make your own with popular sloe gin recipe

2. Add grapefruit

The gin botanicals mean it goes really well with zingy grapefruit so add a twist of fresh grapefruit juice to your glass and finish with a sprig of rosemary for a G&T with a difference.

See the recipe:Pink grapefruit G&T

Psst! Want to get more creative with your drinks? Make your own with our 5 homemade liqueurs that are worth the wait or see all our cocktail recipes.

3. Make it into a dessert

Take G&T to a whole new level with this grown-up take on a zesty lemon tart, made with a slug of gin, tonic water and lightly crushed juniper berries. It's your favourite Friday night drink in a dessert!

See the recipe:Gin and tonic tart

4. Freeze it

You only need 4 ingredients to make these fab summer berry ice lollies made with gin, blueberries, elderflower cordial and sparkling water. Make them ahead and pop them in the freezer, ready to pull out when you need them. Very refreshing on a warm evening or at a summer BBQ.

See the recipe:Cocktail lollies

5. Add tea

Be on-trend and serve a G&Tea at your drinks party, made with gin and green tea syrup. It's better for you, right? Make your own simple green tea syrup and it will keep in the fridge for a month.

Get the recipe:G&Tea cocktail

How do you like yours?

Party food recipes to impress your guests, including seeded cheese biscuits, fig and olive crostini and smoked salmon and cream cheese rolls

Kick your party off in the best possible way with some of these delightful little party nibbles that only take minutes to throw together and will really set you aside!

This lovely crostini platter will really make your party extra special. They couldn't be easier to make and add a touch of class to any drinks gathering.

Click through to see our easy party food ideas...

Savoury Cheesecake

Who needs a cheeseboard when you can share this savoury cheesecake instead? Perfect for party picking.See the savoury cheesecake recipe.

Medjool Dates Stuffed With Roquefort

Cheese-stuffed Medjool dates are so easy and take just 5 minutes to assemble, but make a delicious snack to pass round.See the Medjool dates stuffed with Roquefort recipe.

Rosemary Nuts

Rosemary bar nuts are a step up for crisps and will keep drinks party guests happy.See the rosemary nuts recipe.

Cheese Fondue With Roast New Potatoes

Bring fondue up to date with these cute mini roast potato dippers, which make a fun and filling party bite.See the fondue with roast new potatoes recipe.

Seeded Cheese Biscuits

Rich seeded cheese biscuits are so easy to make in advance and will go down so well with a glass of red wine.

Mini Apple Rarebit

Apple, cheese and mustard make a fantastic combination in these simple party bites that are ready in just 15 minutes.See the mini apple rarebit recipe.

Kale Pesto and Curd Cheese Crostini

Trendy and healthy, kale pesto with walnuts adds an interesting twist to these kale pesto and curd cheese crostini, which make a delicious vegetarian party food option.

Avocado and Chorizo Bruschetta

Delicious and very on trend, mashed avocado makes a lovely topping for a bruschetta along with chorizo and manchego.See the avocado and chorizo bruschetta recipe.

Garlic, Red Pepper And Anchovy Crostini

Roasted garlic takes these red pepper and anchovy crostini to the next level, with a salty-sweet topping.

Chocolate and Coconut Fridge Cake

This simple chocolate and coconut fridge cake takes just 20 minutes to prepare and can be cut into bite-sized pieces to make perfect party nibbles.See the chocolate and coconut fridge cake recipe.

Fig and Black Olive Tapenade Crostini

Make easy fig and black olive tapenade crostini as the easiest but impressive party food that's so simple to make ahead.

Crostini of Roasted Red Peppers with Goats' Cheese

Almost an assembly job, this crostini of roasted red peppers with goat's cheese recipe is a delicious canapé which meat-eaters and veggies alike will love.Find more vegetarian recipes

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Rolls

These smoked salmon and cream cheese rolls are so easy to make ahead and enjoy with a glass of fizz.Find more smoked salmon recipes.

Chilli Chicken Skewers with Slaw

Whether you cook these on the barbecue or inside under a grill, our chili chicken skewers with slaw recipe will keep hungry hordes happy.Find more chicken recipes

Cajun Ribs with Molasses

Make a stack of Cajun ribs with molasses for a sweet, sticky party food that can be served hot or cold. Make ahead so you can relax and enjoy your party.

Tartiflette Pizza

PIzza is so easy to share at a party and this tartiflette pizza is so easy to make, reminiscent of holidays spent at Alpine ski lodges.

Olive Focaccia

Make this delicious olive focaccia bread with oregano as a tear and share party centrepiece that you can serve with homemade dips.

Hazelnut and Frangelico Brownies

This naughty hazelnut and frangelico brownies recipe is strictly for the grown-ups!Find more baking recipes

Asparagus, Mushroom & Bacon Stratas

Delicious and filling, vegetarian guests will love this asparagus, mushroom and bacon stratas recipeFind more muffin recipes

Merguez Sausage Rolls

Spicy marguez sausage rolls are a new take on traditional sausge rolls, with the Mexican sausages bringing a harissa flavour.

Tapenade Crostini

Sourdough bread has much more flavour and is worth 
the extra cost when making these tapenade crostinis for your next get together.

Tomato And Mozzarella Bruschetta

We love slow cooked cherry tomatoes on this easy bruschetta recipe work, topped with mozzarella and basil for a Mediterranean bite.

Pear and Chicory Salad Bites

Sweet quince paste is perfect with salty blue cheese for these pear and chicory salad bites; serve the rest on your cheeseboard.

Mini Smoked Salmon and Chive Frittatas

Mini smoked salmon frittata recipe makes easy party food to share at a drinks party.Find more smoked salmon starter recipes.

Lemon and Coriander Hummus

Everyone loves hummus, so put out this lemon and coriander hummus recipe at the start of the evening so guests can nibble as they arrive.Find more Middle Eastern recipes

Beetroot Blinis

Flash the blinis in a hot oven, then leave to cool before adding the topping.Find more beetroot recipes.

Treacle Cured Salmon

This wonderful treacle cured salmon recipe is so simple to make - and your guests will love the smoky-sweet flavour.Find more salmon recipes

Blue Cheese and Caramelised Onion Tart

Everyone loves a quiche, and this blue cheese and caramelised onion tart recipe is great as part of a buffet with a crisp salad.Find more tart recipes

Vietnamese Pork Balls and Sticky Chicken Teriyaki

Vietnamese is the new foodie favourite, so bring your party up to date with our aromatic recipes. Try tasty Vietnamese pork balls recipe, which are filling without being stodgy, or exotic sticky chicken Teriyaki recipe mini skewers. Tho'm ngon! (Delicious!)Find more Asian recipes

Lamb Koftas with Tzatziki

Warm nibbles always go down well - try a taste of Greece this summer with our lamb koftas with tzatziki recipeFind more lamb recipes

Fruit & Nut Bulgur Wheat Salad

This middle eastern-inspired fruit and nut bulgur salad recipe makes a great alternative to a rice or pasta salad.Find more vegetarian recipes

Blush Apple Martini Cocktail

The appletini has become a modern classic, and this blush apple martini cocktail recipe is taken from The World's Best Cocktails by Tom Sandham.Find more drinks recipes

Cucumber Salad with Feta, Black Olives and Mint

So many fresh flavours - your guests will love this cucumber salad with feta, black olives and mint recipe.Find more salad recipes

Prosecco and Lychee Jellies with Edible Glitter

Serve this light and sophisticated prosecco and lychee jellies with edible glitter recipe in martini glasses for maximum impact!Find more dessert recipes

Chocolate and Salted Caramel Canapes

Make quick and easy chocolate and salted caramel canapes for a sweet treat to pass around at a party.

Mini Baileys Eclairs

Mini Baileys eclairs are worth a little bit of effort, but can be made ahead as an easy party recipe that you know will impress your guests.

Super Dark Venezuelan Truffles

Round off a successful evening with this decadent super dark Venezuelan truffles recipe - they're incredibly simple to make but super impressive.

Get as many generations as you can together to celebrate Mother's Day together with a special meal to share.

Nothing says thank you like a delicious home-cooked meal so we've picked out Mother's Day menu options that could come together for a special lunch with all the family.

Our pick of spring recipes are the perfect Mother's Day treat, including classic prawn cocktail or delicious garlic mussels to start, then lemon roast chicken with goats' cheese and celeriac mash or vegetarian twice baked soufflé followed by easy but impressive desserts such James Martin's raspberry and vanilla cheesecake.

Make the extra effort to mix everyone's favourite recipes with new ideas and recipes you've never tried before, whether it's slow cooking a roast to perfection or making ahead dessert so that you can spend more time chatting and relaxing.

Pick from edible gifts such as chocolate bark that can be wrapped up in cellophane and a pretty bow and go all out for one of most popular cakes, a towering chocolate and hazelnut layer cake that's dripping with salted caramel.

Mother's Day isn't about expensive gifts but all about enjoying quality time together and there's no better way than round a Sunday lunch table.

These carrot and giner cupcakes are so pretty - and taste gorgeous!

Click through to find more Mother's Day recipe inspiration...

Pear, Feta, Walnut and Pea Shoot Salad

Sweet pear, crunchy walnuts and salty cheese - the flavours and textures make this pear, feta, walnut and pea shoot salad recipe the perfect combination for a light starter.

Prawn Cocktail

Make a classic prawn cocktail for a retro treat that's still a favourite all round.

Garlic Mussels

Fresh mussels are so delicious with a simple garlic and herb sauce that you can serve with skinny fries or fresh crusty bread for dipping.

Lemon Chicken with Goats' Cheese and Celeric Mash

This lemon chicken with goat's cheese and celeriac mash recipe is pure comfort food with a healthy twist - just right for a springtime roast.

Fennel and Leek Gratin

Make a delicious side dish like fennel and leek gratin, where the aniseed flavour mellows as it cooks and works so well with leeks.

Mixed Bean Salad with Radish, Pomegranate and Fresh Goats' Cheese

A light and fresh side dish packed with flavour - your guests will be wowed by this mixed bean salad with radish, pomegranate and goat's cheese recipe.

Slow Shoulder of Lamb

Slow cook shoulder of lamb for the best results and this Middle Eastern-inspired recipe is full or spices for the perfect or summer spring roast. 

Boulangere Potatoes

An utterly moreish way to serve potatoes that's much lighter than a traditional creamy gratin, you'll love our boulangere potatoes recipe.

Roasted Pork Loin with Porcini Polenta

Give roasted pork loin with crackling a up-to-date twist and serve it with porcini polenta.

Twice Baked Souffles

Take your pick of cheeses, from cheddar to Comte, to create this twice baked souffles recipe - a vegetarian main everyone will love!

Fool-Proof Chocolate Fondant

Easy chocolate fondant puddings ooze chocolate sauce and look the part for a special meal, but are so simple to make and are ready in just 30 minutes.

Vanilla and Raspberry Cheesecake

Could this be the ultimate cheesecake? No-one will be able to resist a second slice of this baked New York raspberry cheesecake recipe from chef James Martin!

Elderflower Sorbet

Looking for a lighter dessert? This elderflower sorbet recipe is fat free and such a refreshing way to finish lunch!

Apricot and Vanilla Tartlets

So easy and quick to make, this apricot and vanilla tartlet recipe makes the perfect dessert if you're entertaining a crowd.

Salted Caramel and Hazelnut Cake

Make this stunning chocolate, hazelnut and salted caramel cake as a show-stopping dessert or for afternoon tea that's extra special.

Soft Maple Caramels With Sea Salt

Make an edible gift like moreish soft maple caramels with sea salt (and hopefully, they will be shared!).

Chocolate Bark

Looking for a chic homemade gift, or something sweet to serve with coffee after your meal? Add your favourite flavours to our chocolate bark recipe to create your perfect indulgent treat - it beats anything in the shops!

Clotted Cream Fudge

Make clotted cream fudge for a rich and creamy edible gift that takes just 25 minutes to prepare.

Gooey Truffle Squares

DIY truffle squares are rich and impressive, but so easy to make. Just make them the day before as they need 24 hours to chill.

Hosting a dinner party can be a tricky business. Even for a seasoned dinner party pro, it's a balancing act of preparation, timing and if all else fails, plenty of drinks! One false move and you could end up feeling frazzled but it could be worse... Your guests could commit one of these 9 dinner party faux pas, and that will be the last straw! If you've hosted for more than one of these nightmare dinner party guest types in the same evening, our hat comes off to you! Oh, and one last thing, leave them off your guest list next time...

Want to get it right? Take a look at our easy dinner party recipes.

1. The one who's always late

So you've calculated your timings, spent a sizeable chunk of the day prepping for when your guests arrive and when the doorbell starts ringing, you greet everyone with a cold glass of fizz. You're ready to kick things off with the starter - except, hold on, you've just done a headcount and you're still one guest short. You check your phone and there it is, the "so sorry - start without me!" text message, which, let's face it, we all know very well isn't going to happen. There's nothing to ruin a dinner party quite like hangry guests (that's hungry and angry, because those two go hand in hand...)

2. The one who arrived empty handed

Anyone who says this isn't a big deal is clearly as uncivilized as the guest that failed to bring a bottle of something to your dinner party. You've cooked for them, will entertain them for an evening and clean up after them - the least they could have done is bring a bottle, or some flowers!

3. The fussy eater

Of course, if you're expecting a guest who is vegetarian, has a nut allergy or any sort of intolerance, any good host will be able to adapt their menu accordingly. No problem at all. What IS a problem, however, is that just as you're serving the main course, someone protests loudly that they don't eat one of the key ingredients - because they don't like it (and this is news to you!). You awkwardly suggest you'll go and see if there's anything else in the kitchen they can have, all the while feeling totally deflated, only to be met with ‘oh it's fine, I'll just pick around it'. Make a mental note: leave this one off the guest list next time.

4. The one who has a few too many

There's always one who takes it too far and ends up slightly over-indulging with the booze. We're talking full-on flushed face, slurring words, knocking things over... As the evening winds down, it's your duty as host to peel them out of their seat and make sure they safely get into a taxi. Oh, the joys of hosting!

5. The ‘connoisseur'

There's nothing worse than someone who thinks they know best about everything. It's like a ceaseless running commentary on everything you dish up and quite frankly, no one likes a smug know-it-all.

6. The food critic

When you've spent hours preparing a meal you're proud of, there's nothing worse than having a guest pipe up all evening, criticising your choice of wine, your 'over-enthusiasm with the garlic' or that the dessert is 'a bit rich for me'. Unless you're complimenting the dinner, we don't want to hear it!

7. The one who won't stop talking politics

Things always seem to get heated when politics comes to the dinner table and we all know one person who thrives off it. They love nothing more than 'a little healthy debate', but we don't remember putting it on the menu... Save it for another time.

8. The raconteur

Now, there's nothing wrong with being able to entertain a group with witty and engaging anecdotes; in fact, it's very welcome at a dinner party... But there always seems to be one guest that won't let up the podium and dominates the conversation all evening. How are they not bored of their own voice yet?

9. The one who doesn't know when to leave

It's great knowing that your friends are having a good time at your dinner party and that they don't want the evening to come to an end, but there's always a lingerer or two who don't know that it's time to call it a day. Please, just leave so we can lie down...

Wow your loved one with one of these extra-special Valentine's Day recipes. We've got a host of romantic meal ideas, with great ideas for starters, mains and desserts that are perfect for sharing

A Valentine's Day menu is an absolute must this year if you want to show a loved one just how much they mean to you. There's no better way to express how you feel, than preparing a delicious candlelit dinner two. Follow our simple Valentine's Day recipes for wonderfully crafted, mouthwatering restaurant-style food in the comfort of your own home.

We've brought together our best cocktail, starter, main and dessert recipes for you to choose from, so you can ensure you've covered every base and your valentine is blown away by the work you've put in. Little will they know, however, that most of our recipes look stunning but are super easy to put together, which will give you more time to yourself to make sure you're looking your best for your date!

Why not start the evening with a Valentine's Day cocktail - it will definitely set the tone for your special evening, and although it's a lot easier to simply open a bottle of wine or fizz, your partner will appreciate the effort you've gone to, to make the evening extra special.

Follow up your cocktail with an irresistible Valentine's Day starter, and when it comes to the Valentine's Day dinner, anyone would be blown away by these fillet steaks with blue cheese butter and bubble and squeak cakes (pictured). You can prepare most of this dish in advance so you just need to cook the steak and bubble and squeak right before serving, but this only takes a matter of minutes so you won't be stuck in the kitchen all evening.

The tender, juicy steak is perfectly complimented by the blue cheese butter and the bubble and squeak absorbs some of the juice, which will add a wonderful depth of flavour. You can buy the steaks at a fraction of the price of what you would pay for this same dish in a restaurant, and it's just as tasty.

Click through for more Valentine's Day recipe ideas...

Valentine's Day Cocktail: Scarlet Aperol Fizz

For another indulgent way to kick off your Valentine's Day meal, give this tasty cocktail idea a go. With it's colour, fizz and sweet taste, it makes a real change from your usual drink and will feel extra special on Valentine's Day. We love the fizzy edge to this scarlet aperol fizz cocktail, plus, what's more fitting for Valentine's day than a pink drink! Get the recipe: Scarlet Aperol Fizz Cocktail

Valentine's Day Starter: Coconut King Prawns

For a Valentine's Day starter recipe that feels so special you'll think you're at a fancy restaurant, try these coconut king prawns. A superb starter and are fabulously moreish - don't make too many as your date might end up filling up on them! They only take 25 minutes to prep and cook too, do it's a fabulously easy way to kick off your romantic meal. Get the recipe: Coconut King Prawns

Valentine's Day Starter: Love Soup

Your date will be able to tell this soup was made with love as it's made from sweet roasted vegetables and perfectly blended for a rich, creamy texture. If nothing else, you'll definitely fall in love with Jack Monroe's love soup. Serve it up in a heart shaped dish and you'll definitely know what day of the year it is. Get the recipe: Jack Monroe's Love Soup.

Valentine's Day Starter: Lobster, Avocado and Asparagus Salad

Valentine's Day Main: Venison Steak with Redcurrant Sauce

Most of us, when we think steak, we don't automatically think of venison, but this is a wonderful alternative that's just as delicious, plus it has the added benefit of being much lower in saturated fat than beef. This venison steak with redcurrant sauce recipe takes only 10 minutes to prepare but looks really impressive and goes great with mash and a side of greens. Get the recipe: Venison Steak with Redcurrant Sauce

Valentine's Day Main: Grilled Lamb Cutlets with Anchovy and Caper Sauce

Anchovies are well known for being the perfect accompaniment to lamb so you know these grilled lamb cutlets with anchovy caper sauce are going to be good! Give them a go and wow your date this Valentine's Day. Get the recipe: Grilled Lamb Cutlets with Anchovy Caper Sauce

Valentine's Day Main: Moules Marinières with Home-Made Oven Chips

Seafood lovers will adore these moules marinières with home-made oven chips. They'll transport you to the French coast and what's more romantic than food you can eat with your hands?A great special idea for the perfect Valentine's day meal, mussels feel so extravagant but are actually really easy to cook. Get the recipe: Moules Marinières with Home-made Oven Chips.

Valentine's Day Main: Chicken Saltimbocca

This super simple chicken saltimbocca recipe is an Italian classic and sometimes there's nothing better (and more delicious) than falling back on a tried and tested dish. So if you want to make sure your Valentine's Day main dish is up to scratch, give this tasty chicken dish a go this year.

Valentine's Day Main: Spiced Monkfish with Cumin and Baked Aubergine Puree

Monkfish might be one of the pricier fish to buy, but it's well worth it, especially for a special occasion. So if you want to try something extra special this year, give this tasty dish a go and impress your Valentine's date. Our spiced monkfish with cumin and baked aubergine puree is an ideal main course, as the meaty fish is complimented perfectly by the aubergine and cumin. Get the recipe: Spiced Monkfish with Cumin and Baked Aubergine Puree

Valentine's Day Main: Five-Spice Steak and Herb Salad

What could feel more indulgent then a classic steak dinner on Valentine's Day?Give yours a twist this year with this lovely five-spice steak and herb salad is full of wonderful Asian flavours and a great choice for a romantic evening in. It's certainly a dish worth celebrating with!Get the recipe: Five-Spice Steak and Herb Salad

Valentine's Day Main: Pomegranate Molasses Griddled Steak, with Roasted Beetroot and Garlic Mash

Each component of this pomegranate molasses griddled steak with roasted beetroot and garlic mash recipe has a very distinctive flavour but they all come together wonderfully in this stunning dish. It's a great one to try if you want a meal that's a little different this Valentine's Day as it will make the meal feel that extra bit special. Get the recipe: Pomegranate Molasses Griddled Steak with Roasted Beetroot and Garlic Mash

Valentine's Day Main: Griddled Sirloin Steak with Garlic and Parsley Mushrooms

The garlic and parsley mushrooms are the perfect accompaniment to this griddled sirloin steak recipe and it's lovely served with homemade oven baked chips! Steak feels really indulgent and makes a great Valentine's Day main dish, but it's actually really easy and quick to make so it's a great fail safe option to try this year. Get the recipe: Griddled Sirloin Steak

Valentine's Day Main: Baked Sea Bass with Avocado and Pomegranate Salad

Push the boat out on Valentine's Day with a delicious smoked sea bass and prove you've really made the effort for your partner. Don't forget the salad - the combination of avocado and pomegranate makes for a unique and delicious taste - and we all know avocado is a renowned aphrodisiac!Get the recipe: Baked Sea Bass with Avocado and Pomegranate Salad

Valentine's Day Main: Oven Baked Fish And Chips

Easy oven-baked fish and chips takes just 10 minutes to prepare before you pop it in the oven, but it's smart dinner for two topped with lemon zest and fresh thyme.So if you want something tasty this Valentine's Day but don't want it to take too much time out to prep your dinner, give this delicious fish dish a go. Get the recipe: Oven Baked Fish and Chips

Valentine's Day Main: Blueberry Duck with Potato Rosti

The sweetness of the blueberry and apple sauce in this blueberry duck with potato rosti recipe is delightful and provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the duck breast. This dish does take a little longer to put together, but the finished result is so worth it as it makes a really special meal for you Valentine's Day celebration. Get the recipe: Blueberry Duck with Potato Rosti

Valentine's Day Dessert: Raspberry and Pink Champagne Jellies

What is Valentine's day without champagne? But this year instead of drinking it, why not incorporate it into a delicious dessert?A celebratory raspberry and pink Champagne recipe that looks both romantic and beautiful, but is lighter on calories - the ideal way to finish off perhaps a heavier Valentine's dinner! Get the recipe: Raspberry and Pink Champagne Jellies

Valentine's Day Dessert: Raspberry Ripple White Chocolate Slab

Lovers of white chocolate will be delighted with this elegant raspberry ripple white chocolate slab. The fresh raspberry ripple gives the chocolate slab a tart edge and an amazingly vibrant colour. To bring out the zest of the flavour, accompany this with champagne.It's the perfect dessert idea for a romantic Valentine's Day meal. Get the recipe: Raspberry Ripple White Chocolate Slab

Valentine's Day Dessert: Microwave Chocolate Pots

Done in just 6 minutes, including prep and cooking time, these microwave chocolate pots are ideal when you're cooking a big meal and have loads going on at the same time. They're also delicious and topped with a strawberry like in the photo, look really impressive so your guest will never suspect how quick and easy they were to make! Get the recipe: Microwave Chocolate Pots

Are your nieces and nephews, grandchildren, children or friends children as obsessed with Star Wars as ours are?

There's heaps of Star Wars merchandise already in stores, from Lego characters to cake moulds - and it got us thinking... Would the Force be with us if we attempted a Star Wars cake? Because after all, is there a better birthday cake for a Star Wars super fan?

You can find Star Wars silicone moulds in Lakeland, £12.97, including a set of 4 heroes (C-3PO, R2D2, Yoda and Chewbacca) and 4 villains (Darth Vader, Darth Maul, Boba Fett and a Stormtrooper), all in muffin-sized cake form.

The moulds are flexible so it's easier to see the intricate details in the bake AND get your cake out of the mould afterwards.

To make a set of 4 characters, you'll need the mould and a 2 egg cake mixture to fill it:

100g softened butter 100g caster sugar 2 eggs, beaten 1tsp vanilla extract 100g self-raising flour 1tsp baking powder

1. Heat your oven to 180C, gas mark 4. 2. Cream the butter and caster sugar together until the mixture is pale and light. This is easiest using a free-standing mixer and will take about 3-4 minutes on medium speed, although an electric whisk will work too. 3. Gradually add the beaten eggs, mixing well between each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl from time to time. Add the vanilla extract and mix again. 4. Sift the flour and baking powder into the bowl and fold in using a large metal spoon or rubber spatula until the mixture is glossy and smooth. 5. Divide the mixture into the moulds and level with a teaspoon. 6. Bake on the middle shelf of your oven for about 15 minutes until golden, well risen and a wooden skewer inserted into the middle of the cakes comes out clean.

Once you've made your batter, next comes the fun part! Always wait until your cake has cooled completely before decorating.

1. Chewbacca cake

Experiment with the cake base by adding a little melted chocolate to the basic cake mixture. Use gel writing icing or drizzle caramel sauce to get the hairy effect, starting in the middle and working your way out to the edges. Use white and black writing icing to create the eyes and mouth, with red writing icing or a small part of a red lace sweet for the mouth.

2. Darth Vader cake

Once you've turned out your cake and it's cooling on a wire rack, use the cake mould again to stamp Darth Vader's features. Roll out a little ready-to-roll black fondant icing to the thickness of a £1 coin, making sure it's big enough to fill the base of the mould. Gently press the fondant into the bottom of the mould to get the imprint, then trim around the edge with a sharp knife. When the cake has cooled completely, stick the fondant shape to the top using a little icing mixed with water to make a paste.

3. Millennium Falcon cake

Get creative some some freehand drawing, carefully following the imprint with writing icing to pick out the details and add dots. A little lustre spray helps with the space effect.

4. Death Star cake

Spray the cake with silver lustre spray for a metallic effect. Mix icing sugar with a little water to form a paste, then transfer a few spoons of it into another bowl and add a few drops of red food colouring. Dot the two colours over the cake.

5. R2D2 cake

For this giant R2D2 cake, you'll need the R2D2 cake mould from Lakeland, £16.98, which requires an 8 egg sponge mix - multiply the recipe by 4 to get the quantities you'll need to fill it. Once the cake has coolled completely, brush with a little apricot jam. Roll out white fondant icing on a surface dusted with icing sugar - make sure it's big enough to cover the whole cake. Carefully cover the cake with fondant, using your hands to tease it into the edges and smooth it out. Roll out blue ready-to-roll icing and cut out shapes to complete the R2D2 look, sticking them on with a little icing sugar mixed with water. Add extra details with black and red fondant, and spray some with silver lustre spray for the head and button detailing.

If you make a Star Wars cake, share it with us on woman&home's Facebook page or on Twitter @womanandhome. Make the Force bake with you!

Bonfire Night recipes to share with family and friends on fireworks night, including Lorraine Pascale's s'mores pops, casseroles, stews and plenty more warming dishes

Bonfire Night recipes to share with family and friends on fireworks night, whether you're hosting a party of getting everyone together for a hot dinner before going out to watch the fireworks.

Go for chunky soups, hearty stews or sticky toffee cakes for something very autumnal and warming. The only thing left to do once you’ve enjoyed one of our bonfire night recipes is to layer up and head out to enjoy the fireworks displays!

Lorraine Pascale makes classic American s'mores into easy s'mores marshmallow pops (pictured) dipped in chocolate and crushed digestives or ginger nuts. They’re a lovely treat for both kids and adults so you’ll really make the occasion very special if you make them. Plus, they take no time at all to throw together.

For a really warming meal to enjoy before or after the fireworks, why not try our beef meatballs in Guinness – they really are the ultimate comfort food. They are super tasty, warming and filling which makes them the ideal autumn dish. The same goes for our Mexican meatball soup. Any dish with a bit of a kick to it is bound to warm you up so add as much or little heat as you fancy (or can handle!).

Soup is also a great option; our cauliflower cheese soup with bacon and chicory is a favourite, especially as it’s so deliciously cheesy.

For dessert, why not give our butterscotch apple pudding a go – the flavours are an absolute dream together. Sticky date cake with toffee frosting is also another great option. Anything sticky and indulgent is perfect for this time of year and ideal to kick off bonfire night festivities!

Whether you’re looking for a warming, filling dish to serve up before the fireworks or a sweet and sticky dessert, we’ve got everything you could need for the perfect bonfire night menu.Click through to find more of our bonfire night recipes…

Beef Meatballs in Guinness

Make a pot of a beef meatballs in Guinness with horseradish dumplings for a bit of a kick. It will warm everyone up before the fireworks.

Boston Baked Beans

Pop this Boston baked beans recipe in the oven and it will pretty much cook itself - perfect for relaxed entertaining! Leave out the lardons for a vegetarian option.

Venison Casserole

Delicious comfort food without the guilt - try our venison casserole recipe for a leaner winter stew.

Tartiflette

A mix of melted cheese, crispy lardons and layered potatoes make this warming tartiflette recipe

Chilli and Butternut Squash Quesadillas

A Mexican favourite, you can make our chilli and butternut squash quesadillas recipe with whatever cheese and vegetables you have to hand for flexible, stress-free entertaining.

Korean Marinated Chicken with Noodles

Korean marinated chicken with noodles is easy to make for a crowd. Marinate the chicken the night before to make a very speedy dinner.

Maple and Cayenne Chicken Wings with Corn on the Cob

So easy to make, this maple and cayenne chicken wings with corn on the cob recipe will go down a storm with your guests.

Sticky Date Cake with Toffee Frosting

A sticky toffee pudding in a cake - perfect for sharing! You'll love our sticky date cake with toffee frosting recipe.

Slow Cooked Cider-Spiced Pulled Pork

This slow cooked cider-spiced pulled pork recipe is a real show-stopper and can even be put in the oven overnight to achieve meltingly tender meat.

Cauliflower Cheese Soup with Bacon and Chicory

A hearty starter or a simple meal in itself, your guests will love the comforting flavours of our cauliflower cheese soup with bacon and chicory recipe.

Toffee and Banana Mini Loaf Cakes

This toffee and banana mini loaf cakes recipe is a great excuse to make a cake from those overripe bananas and you'll 
love the sticky, fudge topping with 
a hint of sea salt.

Herby Sausage Rolls

No-one can resist a sausage roll, and the seasoning in this Herby Sausage Rolls recipe gives them a wonderful flavour.

Sticky Chipolatas

As part of the main event or just a nibble, adults and children alike will love this sticky chipolatas recipe.

Chelsea Buns

Easier to make than you might think, bring out our Chelsea buns recipe to earn major brownie points from your family and friends!

Slow Cooked Beef Chilli

So easy to make and packed with flavour, our slow cooked beef chilli recipe is the perfect winter warmer to tuck into before spending an evening outside.

Chorizo, Chickpea and Potato Stew with Kale

An easy one-pot your guests will love - our chorizo, chickpea and potato stew with kale recipe is packed with inventive flavours.

Steamed Ginger Pudding with Butterscotch Sauce

A lighter-than-air steamed pudding, treat your family or friends to our delicious steamed ginger pudding with butterscotch sauce recipe.

Mexican Meatball Soup

Make spiced Mexican meatball soup for a warming dinner, served with rice or crusty bread for dipping.

Butterscotch Apple Pudding

Who needs toffee apples when you can have Rachel Allen's butterscotch apple pudding recipe to share with friends before the fireworks?

Love having friends round for dinner, but always find there's one thing you've forgotten, the food hasn't turned out as planned or you feel just a bit frazzled?!

Fret not, because we've pulled together the ultimate dinner party guide to make sure everything comes together as you would have hoped (and most importantly, that you can relax when everyone arrives - otherwise, what's the point?!).

We asked Karen Thomas, product manager at Waitrose, how to be the ultimate dinner party host, from how to plan a menu to what to how to make a playlist...

1. Be realistic

You might want to go all-out with a cheffy menu, but be realistic about what you can make at home, when there will be guests around that you'll want to chat to (especially if you will be cooking solo). It might be difficult to cook 14 lamb shanks at once in a regular-sized oven, for example, so don't even try! Pick a menu that doesn't require oven cooking at different temperatures - or if not, you may need to allow for gaps between courses or think about a different way to cook the starter or main.

Start planning with our easiest dinner party recipes.

2. Note dietary requirements

Don't forget to check it's important to check for any allergies and intolerances to make sure everyone can eat.

Need ideas on the special diet front? Take a look at our gluten free recipes, dairy free recipes, vegan recipes and allergy friendly desserts.

3. Use trusted recipes

Go for recipes you've enjoyed making before, or if you want to try something new do a test run with family... Who won't want to try three courses?!

4. Pick a theme

Stick to one cuisine so courses complement each other. Middle Eastern recipes or Mexican recipes on trend and can work well for a more laidback evening, with lots of sharing plates that you can make ahead.

5. Prepare ahead

Pick recipes that let you get ahead by making a few steps a day or two in advance. Some even taste better that way, especially when it comes to marinating meat.

6. Make a shopping list - and stick to it

The week before your dinner party, put together a list of groceries you need to buy and from where. Ordering online is a great timesaver but if your recipe requires an unusual ingredient you may need to visit a specialist supermarket, so allow for extra time for this. Shop for fresh ingredients (meat, dairy, vegetables) two days before the dinner party, but items with a short shelf life (like bread and seafood) should be purchased the day of the party to ensure freshness.

7. Eat in season

Eating foods in season means they will be at their best AND be the best value, when they might be expensive at other times of year, like strawberries, asparagus and tomatoes, for example.

8. More is more

Make sure no one leaves hungry! If you are unsure on how many portions to purchase or bottles to buy, opt for more as you can always use these after.

9. Create an atmosphere

Think about the ambience you want to create for the evening. Flowers from the garden can bring the outside in and candles help create a relaxed and intimate feel.

10. Style your table

"Styling your dishes and tableware to mirror your chosen cuisine can create a really impactful look," says Karen. "Choose colours, patterns, glassware, tableware, and textiles to complement the food. For example, lots of small plates for a tapas feast, casual Mediterranean platters for an Italian feel, shared plates and dipping bowls if serving Middle Eastern food and classic restaurant bistro table ware for French cuisine. If you do not have the right serving dishes, linen or glassware you can always borrow from a friend."

11. Personalise!

Set the table earlier in the day as this will highlight anything that you might have forgotten. "If your dinner party is more formal, print menus and handwrite some place cards so guests can find their seat easily," says Karen. "Personalisation can be a thoughtful and charming touch such as place cards with homemade stamps, chalk board, photos or stickers, which can be lovely additions."

12. Organise a playlist

Choose an album or create a playlist of songs to set the mood. Put this on before the guests arrive as it helps the host to de-stress and creates a party atmosphere for the guests arriving.

13. Breathe!

Now everything is in place, it's your time to relax. Remember that your guests are primarily coming to socialise, not rate your food. If guests ask to help by bringing wine along or dishes to share, let them. It means one less thing to remember, after all!

Tips provided by Waitrose and Waitrose Cellar.

Entertaining in your garden this weekend? We have so many exciting recipes for you to try that are great enjoyed al fresco, as well as a few great cocktail recipes to refresh you and your guests!

Our easy recipes for outdoor entertaining are the perfect choice for your al fresco dining menu. If the weather permits this weekend, why not dust off the garden table and chairs and soak up some rays whilst enjoying some of our favourite dishes for outdoor eating.

Ready to be dished up in only 10 minutes, our prawn andmango rice salad recipe(pictured) is full of fresh flavours - zesty lime, mango and chilli, with the contrasting textures of the king prawns and crunchy cucumber. It?s a really delightful recipe that you can make more of if you?re expecting a big group round, alternatively, if you?re heading to a picnic you can easily bring it with you, stored in a tupperware.

For dessert, we?ve got strawberries and cream cupcakes, an iced lemon terrine and plenty more that really capture the flavours of summer. We?ve got loads of berry recipes, as they are in season during the British summer, so they are the perfect ending to a delightful meal.

Outdoor eating is very sociable, so we?ve got some great dishes that can be easily shared; tear and share breads for example that are great with some good dips and accompaniments, so you can pair them with things like houmous or even guacamole. The leek and goats? cheese loaf is a favourite as it?s full of flavour and a really great combination of creaminess, soft bread, and crusty outside. It?s an absolute delight to both make and eat.

Whether you?re looking for a healthy, delicious salad, a simple tart recipe, or something meatier, we?ve got your outdoor eating menu sorted. We?ve got everything from mains to desserts and lets not forget about the cocktails, which we love to sip in between!

Click through for some of our favourite easy recipes for outdoor entertaining?

Cucumber Salad with Feta, Black Olives and Mint

This cucumber salad with feta, black olives and mint recipe is a lovely salad to serve with barbecued meat or is just as good served on its own. 

Rosewater Floating Islands with Framboise Custard and Fresh Raspberries

Light as clouds, these rosewater floating Islands with framboise custard and fresh raspberries recipes are delicate, poached meringues floating on a flavoured crème anglaise are a French classic known as 'île flottante'.

Peri Peri Chicken Breasts with Blackened Corn Salad

With its African and Portuguese origins, peri peri sauce is a popular accompaniment for chicken. Try our peri peri chicken breasts with blackened corn salad recipe as a simple at-home version.

Homemade Sausages with Spiced Mint Yoghurt

The spiced, smoky flavour of these homemade sausages with spiced mint yoghurt recipe makes them perfect for the barbecue.

Iced Lemon Terrine

There's absolutely no cooking required to create this show-stopping Iced lemon terrine recipe - but you don't have to tell anyone that!

Little Gem and Pecorino Salad with Sweet Mustard Dressing

The thick dressing on this little gem and pecorino salad with sweet mustard dressing recipe really sits on the leaves - it's also great for a dip. 

Honey and Rose Baked Plums

The exotic Middle Eastern flavours of this dish make a really lovely, fragrant honey and rose baked plums recipe. 

A Rather Good Herby Burger

Once you've tasted a rather good herby burger, you won't go back to shop-bought!

Mediterranean Stuffed Squid

Feel like you're on holiday by enjoying our Mediterranean stuffed squid recipe which is sure to transport you to warmer climes.

Strawberries Romanoff

We've brought back this old classic dessert recipe ? our strawberries Romanoof recipe is a delicious alternative to the traditional strawberries and creamFind more strawberry recipes

Sweet Chilli Chicken Skewers with Pickled Slaw

This lightened-up version of coleslaw goes perfectly with most grills but we love our super-simple sweet chilli chicken skewers with pickled slaw recipe. They're easily enjoyed outdoors without getting too messy! 

Strawberries and Cream Cupcakes

A real treat of a dessert, these strawberries and cream cupcakes are fluffy, light and super tasty. 

Spanish Tostadas

What's easier than a Spanish tostada! So simple and light, and ideal for a light lunch! 

Oven Dried Cherry Tomato and Mozzarella Bruschetta

Our oven dried tomato and mozarella bruschetta takes no time at all to throw together, and is the sort of sociable food that is best served outdoors with a glass of white wine! 

Saint Lucia Rum Punch

Made with apple and orange juice, this Saint Lucia rum punch is a great cocktail recipe for when you're expecting friends round. 

Green Olive and Oregano Focaccia

Tear and share green olive and oregano focaccia is a real delight and can be served alongside any dips of your preference. 

Leek and Goats' Cheese Picnic Loaf

This leek and goats' cheese picnic loaf is deliciously creamy as well as having a lovely crunchy crust on the outside. Ideal summer food. 

Pork Skewers

We love these easy to make pork skewers; they're great made in advance and enjoyed at a picnic or thrown on the barbecue. Either way, they're best enjoyed outdoors! 

Griddled Chicken Salad with Courgettes and Cannellini Beans

Griddled chicken salad with courgettes and cannellini beans is a great salad full of summery flavours.