Speedy spaghetti with clams

This simple Italian pasta dish uses jars of clams in tomato sauce – a great time-saver

Veggie platter

Alastair Little’s veggie antipasti platter makes an ideal starter course, or to serve with wine and a loaf of crusty bread

Cacciatore chicken

Jazz up chicken breasts with an Italian tomato sauce with rosemary and garlic, baked like a casserole – it's a healthy choice, too

Roast Parmesan parsnips

For a twist on a favourite side dish, coat parsnips in corn and grated Italian cheese to ensure a tasty, crunchy finish

Carrot & sugar snap salad

Sweet, colourful and low-in-fat – this super side even counts towards your five-a-day

New potato & sundried tomato salad

This simple salad is a flavourful, vegetarian side – perfect for al fresco summer dining

Baked sea bass with fennel

Cook your fish Italian-style with this simple recipe – just six ingredients, but full of Mediterranean flavour

Cheesy baked courgettes

Liven up grilled meats or fish with this summery side dish

Broccoli with chilli & crispy garlic

Chilli and garlic will really add zing to an otherwise traditional vegetarian side dish

Creamed spinach

What can be better than a side of creamy, nutmeg-infused spinach? Perfect to accompany any roast and especially good at Christmas

Easy creamed spinach

Double cream, Parmesan cheese and a pinch of nutmeg turn this spinach side into something a little bit special

Herby apricot quinoa

Bring some South American flavour to the table with this fruity side dish