Smoked salmon with beetroot & vodka crème fraîche

A hit of vodka gives this classic a new edge. Serve with a shot of vodka for full effect

Smoked salmon with horseradish crème fraîche & beetroot

This speedy salad can be whipped up as an impressive starter – the fish is completely lifted by contrasting flavours

Comté cheese soufflé

Raymond Blanc's recipe for this sumptuous dinner party starter, with a luxurious cheesy sauce, is guaranteed to impress – use gruyère or emmenthal cheese, if you prefer

Shukhi – warm beetroot & mushroom salad

This Ukrainian dish is traditionally eaten at Christmas – serve on toasted rye bread for a crostini-like starter or party canapé

Baked camembert with bacon-wrapped breadsticks

Contains pork – recipe is for non-Muslims only

Gooey, melted cheese and crispy, golden bread make a stunning centrepiece to share with friends over drinks or as a dinner party starter – make ahead for fuss-free entertaining

Lobster, green bean & radicchio salad

This festive seafood starter, finished with a garlicky basil dressing, can be prepared ahead – ideal for a fuss-free dinner for two

Quick lemon gravadlax

This speedy, zesty version of the Swedish classic cuts the curing time to 30 minutes and makes a special starter for two

Prawn & crab cocktail lettuce cups

Serve seafood on a sharing platter and let everyone build their own little prawn cocktail bites for a perfect dinner party starter or canapé

DIY British beef crostini

Elegant yet full-flavoured, guests will love putting together these bites – make the beef and crème fraîche topping in advance to get ahead

Layered hummus with spiced tortilla chips

Entertain a crowd with this attractive chickpea dip – make the hummus and herby oil ahead, then assemble at the last minute