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

Cheesy sprout fondue

Contains pork – recipe is for non-Muslims only
This versatile recipe can be altered to transform your leftover cheese into a help-yourself starter – perfect served with crusty bread

Smoked fish & potato latkes sharing platter

Pan-fry potato patties until golden, then serve with smoked salmon, mackerel and a creamy sauce as part of a sharing seafood platter

Baked artichoke dip

Reader Margaret Cody shares her moreish party dish- the creamy vegetarian filling baked into a round loaf will go down a storm with guests

Walnut & stilton orzotto with roasted squash & Port sauce

MasterChef finalist, Alex Rushmer, shows us how to create a show-stopping vegetarian starter for the festive season

Baked goat’s cheese with hazelnut crust & balsamic onions

This simple breaded cheese can be made ahead and frozen, ready to use as a starter for a dinner party with friends