Spicy beans on toast

Jazz up this all-day staple dish with some cumin, coriander and semi-dried tomatoes then serve on hot buttered wholemeal bread

Moroccan chickpea soup

This low-fat soup is packed with storecupboard pulses, healthy grains and North African spice- use cumin, ras el hanout, ginger and cinnamon

Peach & almond tart

Authentic Italian Peach and almond tart

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

Somerset stew with cheddar & parsley mash

This family winter warmer is full of flavour and goodness. Adapt for meat lovers by adding sausages

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

White chocolate cheesecake with rhubarb compote

This soft and creamy cheesecake makes a suitably impressive and indulgent end to a dinner party

Warm squash & rocket salad with garlic vinaigrette

This gutsy vegetarian dish lifts the humble pumpkin with a sweet dressing and creamy cheese

Whipped brie salad with dates & candied walnuts

This sumptuous salad is perfect for a group starter and can be whipped up the night before

Clementine, feta & winter leaf salad

This wonderfully light salad is packed with easy-to-find seasonal ingredients and makes a great Christmas starter