That Time I Built a Cheese and Pineapple Hedgehog

Having not lived through the 70’s, in Britain or otherwise, I was, until very recently, unaware of the gastronomic showpiece that is the Cheese and Pineapple Hedgehog. It came up during a discussion about Eurovision – another WTF cultural phenomenon – when someone advised the Cheese and Pineapple Hedgehog was the ultimate in Eurovision partyContinue reading “That Time I Built a Cheese and Pineapple Hedgehog”

Cheese Straw Twists

These are an elegant and crowd-pleasing nibble, and just as suitable with a cold beer as with a glass of champagne. Make more than you think you’ll need – these are seriously addictive. Makes approx. 32 twists Ingredients 1 sheet of ready-rolled puff pastry Cheddar cheese Parmesan cheese Pinch of cayenne pepper Salt 1 eggContinue reading “Cheese Straw Twists”

Spiced Cheddar Cheesecake

A showstopper, make-ahead appetizer, and addictive in the extreme. This would also make a really nice cheese course in lieu of dessert. To make this, you will require a 5-inch diameter springform tin, easily procured online. Make sure your cream cheese is very soft before starting, otherwise you won’t get a light, fluffy cheesecake. ThisContinue reading “Spiced Cheddar Cheesecake”

A Very English Garden Party

Summer is finally here, and restrictions in the UK are slowly but surely lifting for social gatherings. To celebrate, how about a traditional English garden party? You’re invited! Come join the party in my garden… The Set-Up For me, a garden party needs a string or two of bunting, a couple of lawn games, andContinue reading “A Very English Garden Party”

No Notice Nibbles: Halloumi with Honey and Thyme

A sealed packet of halloumi lasts for ages in the fridge, so if you’ve got thyme growing and a bottle of honey kicking around, you can knock up a beautiful nibble at a moment’s notice. Feeds 4 Ingredients 1 x 225g packet halloumi cheese 3 – 4 sprigs of thyme Drizzle of honey Method: PreheatContinue reading “No Notice Nibbles: Halloumi with Honey and Thyme”

Cheesy Potato, Leek and Bacon Gratin

A cosy, warming dish that would be a perfect side with a baked ham or some white fish. It also makes a very satisfying main meal just in itself, though you won’t win many points toward your 5-a-day. (Not that this would stop me.) Slice the potatoes either by hand or using a processor withContinue reading “Cheesy Potato, Leek and Bacon Gratin”

Sausage-Stuffed Peppers

A comfort food classic, and healthier than it feels. Fabulous the next day, too. Feeds 4 Ingredients 4 bell peppers Olive oil Salt and pepper 1 onion, finely diced 250g sausage meat (about 4 medium sausages) 1 heaped tsp dried oregano leaves 1 heaped tsp fennel seeds 1/4 tsp chilli flakes 28oz (800g) tinned tomatoesContinue reading “Sausage-Stuffed Peppers”

Zucchini Parmigiana

When I’m trying to cut calories and eat as healthily as possible, I need lots of warm, comforting food to stave off any feelings of deprivation (or desperation). This really delivers. Hot, bubbly, full of vegetables, and ready in about an hour. I don’t claim any particular credentials in nutritional science, but I reckon aContinue reading “Zucchini Parmigiana”

Ham and Gruyère Quiche

Ham and Gruyère is a particularly Christmassy combination. It would be great with a festive salad for a brunch around the Christmas period. Big Christmas gatherings necessitate lots of food, so I am more than happy to pull out my Grandmother’s beautiful – and enormous – quiche dish (Portmeirion c. 1972). She never did portionsContinue reading “Ham and Gruyère Quiche”

No Notice Nibbles: Marinated Feta

Chic, interesting and instant. Perfect on its own as a last-minute appetizer, or as part of a tapas feast or grazing board. Ingredients Block of feta cheese Dried oregano Dried chilli flakes Flaked salt Pepper Extra virgin olive oil To serve: cocktail sticks Method: Place the block of feta on the serving board or platterContinue reading “No Notice Nibbles: Marinated Feta”