Mexican bean soup with shredded chicken & lime

Use leftover chicken breast in this substantial healthy soup. Alternatively, make the recipe vegetarian by topping with chunky, fresh guacamole

Christmas brownies

Chocolate truffles, amaretti biscuits and a few edible Christmas flourishes make these festive brownies an extra-special dessert no one could resist

Slow cooker ham with sticky ginger glaze

Contains pork – recipe is for non-Muslims only

A small gammon will easily fit in a slow cooker. Cook it low and slow for homemade glazed ham that's ideal for sandwiches, party buffets or simply sliced and served with chips

Seeded wholemeal soda bread

Shop-bought bread can be loaded with salt, sugar and preservatives, so try making your own for a healthier loaf. It takes only 10 minutes to prepare

Winter compote tumblers

Make this the night before and it’ll be ready waiting for you in the fridge in the morning. If you like your almonds crunchy, scatter them on before serving

Spiced pea & courgette fritters with minty yogurt dip

These spiced pea and coriander fritters are easy to make ahead of time. Scatter with crunchy spring onions and serve with the cool minty yogurt dip

Poached eggs with smashed avocado & tomatoes

Keep yourself full until lunchtime with this healthy breakfast boost. Delicious avocado serves as a butter alternative and goes well with a runny poached egg

Quick frosted walnuts

These crunchy walnuts make a great topping for a festive treat or a bowl of ice cream. The simplest way to take a dessert to dinner party level

St Nick’s flip

Nick Jones and Leah de Felice Renton from Birds & Bats Wines describe their cocktail creation as a creamy Christmas dessert in a glass, sign us up!

Easy bibimbap

A Korean rice bowl packed with goodies – sliced steak, fried egg, spinach, carrot and toasted sesame seeds, plus gochujang or sriracha for a chilli kick