Poached plums

Cook a comforting autumn dessert using these gently spiced, poached plums. Or make them the star of the show simply served with cream, custard or ice cream

Sandham family mincemeat

A real treat. Associate food editor, Barney Desmazery, has had this recipe in his family for 100 years

Millionaire’s chocolate tart

A dinner party version of teatime favourite, millionaire's shortbread. It's not too bitter, so the kids will love it too

Angela Nilsen’s Christmas cake

A long-life Christmas cake that’s bursting with flavours of spices and vanilla

Cherry chocolate Pavlova

Finish your meal with this impressive dessert, with billowing cream and fresh summer fruit

Summer crunch salad

The crunchiness of green beans works particularly well in this salad

Tangy roast pepper & walnut dip

A nice and spicy partner to pre-dinner drinks. Great with some toasted pitta for dipping

Pasta with mozzarella, mint & fresh tomato sauce

A fresh but filling dish full of light summer flavours

Butter bean & tomato salad

This quick and easy vegan French salad combines delicious flavours – perfect summer dish

Pea & mint soup

A superhealthy starter or snack that's great hot or cold

Eton mess stacks

We love individual puddings, they add a certain ‘Je ne sais quoi’ to an occasion. And these fab little meringues are definitely an occasion pudding

Very berry ice

Try this fruity iced pud – a fantastic and fat-free dinner party dessert