Smoked salmon & bean dip with crispy pittas

The pittas become crunchy in the oven making them unbelievably moreish

Tomato & harissa stew with cheddar dumplings

Jazz up a vegetarian casserole with some spicy North African flavours and hearty cheese dumplings

New potato & green bean salad

Try to use Jersey royals in this healthy take on a picnic classic then swap the mayo for honey mustard vinaigrette

Niçoise stuffed baguette

For the ultimate transportable sandwich, hollow out a French stick and fill with tuna, olives, anchovies and eggs

Fruit & nut chocolate chequers

Kids can learn to melt chocolate with this simple recipe – a perfect homemade gift

Tasty cottage pies

The classic family dish from the Cooking with Auntie Sara series – perfect for getting the kids involved

Warm duck salad with Merlot dressing

The dressing for this filling salad is quite unusual as it has chicken stock in
it, which adds a great depth of flavour

Chicory & orange salad with ginger dressing

A fresh and light salad that makes a great accompaniment to an Indian-style buffet, perfect for New Year or a celebration

Balsamic steaks with peppercorn wedges

Freeze single portions of sirloin steak and chips so you have a home-cooked meal within minutes of getting home

Chicken liver parfait with sultanas & raisins

Making your own paté is an extra-special touch- this version is flavoured with wine, cream, garlic and sage